Glossary : Guide to Mouthwash

An explanation of dental terms used in this guide.

A

Antiseptic

A chemical found in mouthwash which has anti-bacterial qualities. It reduces plaque and prevents bad breath.

An example of this is chlorhexidine gluconate.

B

Bleaching

A dental procedure in which a chemical agent is applied to the teeth in order to whiten them.

C

Calculus

The hard plaque deposit which forms on the surface of the teeth. This is also known as tartar.

D

Decay

A condition in which the structure of a tooth is gradually eroded due to acids produced from food and plaque.

Dental floss

A slim thread which is inserted between the teeth to remove food debris and plaque. This removes food debris from areas which a toothbrush cannot reach.

Dental hygienist

A person who is professionally trained to clean the teeth. This often includes the ‘scale and polish’ procedure to remove tartar stains and plaque.

E

Enamel

The top outer layer of the tooth.

F

Flossing

The name given to the method of using dental floss to clean between the teeth. This is usually carried out after the teeth have been brushed.

Fluoride

A chemical, added to tap water and toothpaste which protects the teeth against tooth decay as well as strengthening their surface.

G

Gums

The soft tissues which surround the teeth. The gums surround both the upper and lower teeth. These can become infected if not properly cared for, leading to gum disease.

H

Halitosis

The medical name for bad breath.

I

None at present.

J

None at present.

K

None at present.

L

Lingual

The area near to the tongue or the tongue itself.

M

Mucositis

Oral mucositis is a side effect of chemotherapy which results in ulcers of the soft tissues of the mouth and throat.

N

None at present.

O

None at present.

P

Palate

The soft tissues of the roof of the mouth.

Periodontal disease

A severe form of gum disease in which the gums have receded, leading to infection and loosened teeth. This can result in eventual loss.

Plaque

A sticky film, comprised of bacteria, which forms on the surface of the teeth. This hardens over time to form tartar which causes tooth decay.

Q

None at present.

R

Root

The part of the tooth which is hidden within the jawbone.

S

Scale

The ‘scale and polish’procedure which removes tartar, plaque and stains from the teeth.

T

Tooth whitening

A cosmetic procedure which removes stains from the teeth and then bleaches them to look white.

U

None at present.

V

None at present.

W

None at present.

X

None at present.

Y

None at present.

Z

None at present.