Dental Hygiene Vocabulary

noun a substance that prevents infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms

adjective capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms

• The doctor applied antiseptic to the wound before bandaging it.
• Make sure to clean the cut with antiseptic before putting on a band-aid.
• I always carry antiseptic wipes in my bag in case of any accidents.
• His words were like antiseptic, soothing the tension in the room.

adjective having lost or changed in color, often due to age or damage

• The discolored spot on the wall indicated water damage.
• I noticed a discolored patch on the ceiling in the bathroom.
• The discolored stain on the carpet was a real eyesore.
• Her discolored mood reflected the challenging day she had.

noun a thick, soft, moist substance, usually produced by mixing dry ingredients with a liquid

verb to stick or fasten something onto something else with paste

• Please make sure to paste the correct information into the document.
• Just copy and paste the text from the website.
• I'll just paste the link here real quick.
• She had to paste a smile on her face even though she was upset.

noun a preventative measure or treatment to protect against disease or infection

• Dental prophylaxis is essential for maintaining good oral health.
• Getting a teeth cleaning is important for preventing cavities.
• Gotta make sure to get my teeth scraped to keep them healthy.
• Regular maintenance is like prophylaxis for keeping your life in order.

noun the act of cleaning or washing something by applying water or other liquid to it

verb gerund form of the verb 'rinse', which means to clean or wash something by applying water or other liquid to it

• After washing the dishes, remember to thoroughly rinse them to remove any soap residue.
• Don't forget to rinse your hair after shampooing to make sure all the product is out.
• I always feel so refreshed after rinsing off in a cold shower.
• Rinsing away the negativity from your life can lead to a more positive mindset.

verb to make something completely clean and free from bacteria or other microorganisms

• The medical staff must sterilize all surgical equipment before each procedure.
• Make sure to sterilize the baby bottles before using them.
• I'll just quickly sterilize these tweezers in boiling water.
• The intense heat of the sun seemed to sterilize the landscape, leaving it barren and lifeless.

noun a small piece of absorbent material attached to the end of a stick or wire, used for cleaning or applying medication

verb to clean or apply medication with a swab

• The nurse used a sterile swab to collect a sample for testing.
• I had to swab the inside of my cheek for a DNA test.
• He swabbed the spill with a paper towel.
• The artist used a swab of paint to create a beautiful masterpiece.

noun a paste used with a toothbrush to clean and maintain the health of teeth

• Dentists recommend using toothpaste to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Don't forget to grab a tube of toothpaste when you go to the store.
• I ran out of toothpaste so I need to pick up some more at the drugstore.
• His smile was so bright, it looked like he had brushed with extra-strength toothpaste.

noun a cleansing substance

adjective having the quality or power of cleansing or scouring

• The abstersive properties of this cleaning solution make it perfect for removing tough stains.
• I need to find a good abstersive cleaner to get rid of this mess.
• I heard this new abstersive stuff works wonders on grime.
• His words were like an abstersive, scrubbing away any doubts or uncertainties in my mind.