Tartar, Plaque, Gingivitis, Oh My! Confusing Terms Your Hygienist May Use -- And Their Meanings

As a part of your yearly cleaning and exam, most dental hygienists will tell you how your oral health is going and perhaps give you some advice for taking better care of your teeth in the future. But sometimes, especially when you're feeling a bit anxious and overwhelmed after a dental appointment, the words that say can go in one ear and out the other. It helps if you fully understand all of the terms your hygienist may use when speaking about your teeth. Here's a look at some of those terms and their meanings.

Plaque

Plaque is that sticky, cream-colored substance that builds up on your teeth when you have not brushed in a while. It's not just old food particles like some people assume. It's actually comprised of sugars, bacteria, and the acids that bacteria secrete. The reason why you need to remove plaque from your teeth as often is possible is because that acids is contains erode tooth enamel and can cause cavities.

Tartar

Some patients assume tartar and plaque are the same thing, but this is not true. Tartar is hardened plaque. It usually accumulates along the gumline. Like plaque, it contains bacteria and can therefore damage your teeth. However, tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush -- only with your dentist's tools. This is one reason why professional cleaning appointments are so important.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It's an inflammation of the gums caused by oral bacteria. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, then you have at least minor gingivitis. Though this condition is common, it should not be taken lightly because it can progress to causing loose teeth and serious infections rather quickly.

Prophylaxis

This is just another term for professional dental cleaning, which your hygienist is probably performing on you. The procedure involves scraping the tartar and plaque from the teeth, and then polishing them.

Caries

This is just a fancy word that means the same thing as "cavities." Cavities or caries are holes in your tooth enamel caused by acid erosion. The acids that cause them are typically those secreted by oral bacteria.

Malocclusion

Your dental hygienist may use this terms when talking about the possibility of braces and other orthodontic devices. It just refers to a misalignment of the teeth -- or when they are not straight in your jaw.

If your hygienist uses any other terms you do not understand, do not hesitate to ask him or her to explain them a bit further. The better you understand your hygienist's instructions, the easier time you'll have caring for your teeth. For more information, contact companies like Milner Dentistry.