Dental Hygiene Terms

noun a substance used for cleaning the teeth; toothpaste or tooth powder

• Dentifrice is a substance used for cleaning the teeth.
• I need to buy some more toothpaste, also known as dentifrice.
• Hey, can you pass me the minty fresh dentifrice?
• His words were like a dentifrice, cleaning up the mess of the situation.

noun a soft, strong thread used for cleaning the spaces between the teeth

verb to clean between the teeth with dental floss

• Dentists recommend using dental floss to clean between your teeth.
• Don't forget to floss before you go to bed.
• I always carry floss in my bag in case I need it.
• She used her charm as a social floss to smooth over any awkward situations.

adjective not causing damage or wear by friction; gentle or mild in effect

• The nonabrasive cleaning solution is safe to use on delicate surfaces.
• I prefer using nonabrasive scrubbing pads for cleaning my dishes.
• This nonabrasive toothpaste is gentle on your teeth.
• His nonabrasive approach to criticism made it easier for me to accept feedback.