Glossary

Buffering capacity – Buffering properties of an aqueous solution are a measure of resistance to pH change, and can be represented by titratable acidity, which is the amount of base, given in mmol/l, needed to raise the pH to a defined level (normally 7.0). And buffering capacity is the buffering at the pH of the investigated solution.

Chelation – Chelation is the ability of a molecule to form complex with an ion. As it applies to the oral cavity, chelation is the process whereby citric acid has the ability to demineralize enamel to a much greater degree than its pH can explain. Through its chelating properties, citric acid removes calcium from the enamel surface, and through chelation forms a compound from which the calcium cannot be released. Therefore, the calcium is not available to diffuse back into the tooth. Citric acid also has the ability to chelate calcium in saliva, reducing the remineralizing effect.

Demineralization – The chemical process by which minerals (mainly calcium) are removed from the mineralized tooth substance – enamel, dentin, and cementum. The chemical process occurs through dissolution by acids or by chelation, and the rate of demineralization will vary due to the degree of supersaturation of the immediate environment of the tooth and the presence of fluoride. In optimal circumstances, the minerals may be replaced through the process of remineralization.

Dental Abrasion - Dental abrasion is the physical loss of mineralized tooth substance caused by objects other than teeth.

Dental Attrition - Dental attrition is the physical loss of mineralized tooth substance caused by tooth-to-tooth contact.

Dentin hypersensitivity – Tooth pain that is characterized by brief, sharp, well-localized pain in response to thermal, evaporative, tactile, osmotic, or chemical stimuli that cannot be ascribed to any other dental disease or condition. Exposed dentin is a feature, and therefore the condition is associated with enamel wear (usually erosion) or gingival recession.

Developed countries – A term not frequently used today in classifying countries, as no definitive definition exists. The term is used to describe countries with industrialized economies and higher levels of gross domestic product. Developed countries are able to spend more on health systems. These systems are typically treatment-oriented and focus services on the needs of the individual rather than the community.

Erosive tooth wear – Erosive tooth wear is the chemical loss of mineralized tooth substance caused by the exposure to acids not derived from oral bacteria and/or by chelation.

Fluorapatite – A crystal structure in tooth mineral (Ca₁₀ (PO₄)₆ F₂) resulting from the replacement of hydroxyl ions (OH-) in the hydroxyapatite structure with fluoride ions (F-). Fluorapatite (also commonly referred to as fluoroapatite, fluorhydroxyapatite or fluorohydroxyapatite) is stronger and more acid resistant than hydroxyapatite.

GERD – Gastroesophageal reflux disease; the reflux of hydrochloric acid generated in the stomach that travels to the mouth. Erosive tooth wear will occur upon the frequent contact of the acid with enamel surfaces.

Hydroxyapatite – Crystals of calcium phosphate – (Ca₁₀ (PO₄)₆ OH₂) that form the mineral structure of teeth and bone. Enamel comprises approximately 98% hydroxyapatite (by weight). Much of the hydroxyapatite in enamel, however, is a calcium-deficient carbonated hydroxyapatite, the crystals of which are readily dissolved by acids. The addition of fluoride creates fluorapatite, which is less soluble and more acid-resistant.

Ions - Atoms or molecules that carry either a positive or a negative electric charge in a solution. For example, sodium chloride (NaCl, common table salt) in water dissociates into Na+ and Cl– ions.

Prevalent – Widespread; widely or commonly occurring.

Remineralization – The chemical process by which minerals (mainly calcium) are replaced into the substance of the mineralized tooth substance – enamel, dentin and cementum. The process requires an ideal environment that includes supersaturation with calcium and phosphate ions, and adequate buffering. In the presence of fluoride, remineralization is enhanced.

Tooth wear - The cumulative surface loss of mineralized tooth substance due to physical or chemo-physical processes (dental erosion, attrition, abrasion). Does not include surface loss due to dental caries, resorption or trauma.

Xerostomia – A subjective assessment of mouth dryness, usually but not always associated with low levels of saliva production. Inadequate production of saliva occurs for many reasons, most commonly as an unwanted effect of many prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Saliva is necessary for maintaining a healthy mouth, and, in relation to dental caries, is essential for remineralization.