The dentist is a doctor who is specially trained to care for teeth. When you visit your dentist for a checkup, he or she will look at your teeth and gums to check for any problems. The dentist also wants to make sure your teeth are developing properly as you grow. It's important to visit your dentist every 6 months to make sure you're taking good care of your teeth and that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Dental Words Some words used at the dentist's office might be new to you. Here are what they mean:
Bacteria (say: bak-teer-ee-uh) - tiny organisms that live on your teeth and are found in plaque
Cavity - the decayed part of a tooth
Dental hygienist (say: hi-jeh-nist) - a person with special training about the proper way to keep teeth and gums clean and healthy
Dental X-rays - pictures of your teeth and gums that will show a dentist whether there are any cavities
Flossing - involves using a piece of waxy string called dental floss to get in between your teeth and remove food particles that your toothbrush can't reach
Fluoride treatment (say: floor-ide) - a gel or foam applied to teeth that makes them strong and helps prevent cavities
Orthodontist (say: or-tho-don-tist) - a doctor who specializes in correcting the shape or positions of your teeth
Plaque (say: plak) - a thin, sticky layer containing bacteria that grows on your teeth
