Technical terms about prevention and oral hygiene beginning with R

RDA value – A measure of a toothpaste's abrasiveness. The higher it is, the more strongly it scours. Where tooth necks are exposed, a low value is appropriate. Abrasion Toothpaste

Recall – The practice's appointment system: it gets in touch when the next preventive appointment is due. More effective than good intentions. Individual prevention

Remineralisation – The repair of incipient enamel damage by minerals from saliva and fluoride. It only works as long as the surface is still intact. Fluoride Saliva Caries

Retainer – Thin wire bonded behind the front teeth after a tooth correction so that the teeth keep their position. Tartar collects on it; it needs dental floss with a stiffened end or a very fine interdental brush every day. Aligner Tartar Dental floss

Gingival recession – Receding of the gums. The teeth look longer, the tooth neck is exposed and becomes sensitive. The most common cause with otherwise healthy gums: brushing too hard. Gums that have receded do not grow back. Tooth neck Root caries Abrasion