Teeth Whitening Teeth Terminology 5

Question 1

What is 'gingivitis' and why is it relevant to whitening?

Accepted Answer

Inflammation of the gums that should be treated before whitening

Answer

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque, and active gum disease should be resolved before whitening to avoid worsening irritation.

Question 2

What is 'xerostomia' and how does it relate to teeth whitening?

Accepted Answer

Dry mouth, which can increase sensitivity and side effects during whitening

Answer

Xerostomia (dry mouth) reduces saliva's buffering capacity, potentially increasing sensitivity and discomfort during whitening treatments.

Question 3

What is the 'CEJ' (cementoenamel junction) in tooth anatomy?

Accepted Answer

The boundary where enamel ends and cementum begins on the tooth surface

Answer

The cementoenamel junction (CEJ) is the line on the tooth where the enamel of the crown and the cementum of the root meet.

Question 4

What does the prefix 'hypo-' mean when describing conditions like 'hypocalcification'?

Accepted Answer

Under or deficient

Answer

The prefix 'hypo-' means under or deficient, so hypocalcification means insufficient calcification or mineralization of tooth structure.

Question 5

What is 'operculum' in dental terminology?

Accepted Answer

A flap of gum tissue partially covering an erupting tooth

Answer

An operculum is a flap of gingival tissue that partially covers an erupting tooth, commonly seen with wisdom teeth.

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