Dental Hygiene Sam: Hello.
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Hello Mr. Waters. I'm Gina. I'll be cleaning your teeth today.

Sam: Dr. Peterson has just filled two cavities. Why do I need a cleaning?
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Well, we have to make get your teeth and gums clean and disease free.

Sam: I guess that makes sense.
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Oral health leads to trouble-free teeth. I'll start off by removing plaque. Please lean back and open wide.

Sam: OK, I hope it's not too bad.
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Everybody gets plaque, even if they floss regularly. That's why it's important to come in twice a year for check-ups.

Sam: (getting his teeth cleaned, can't say much...)
Gina the Dental Hygienist: OK, please take a drink and rinse.

Sam: Ah, that's better.
Gina the Dental Hygienist: OK, now I'll apply some fluoride. Which flavor would you like?

Sam: I have a choice?
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Sure, we have mint, spearmint, orange or bubble-gum - that's for the kids.

Sam: I'd like to have the bubble-gum!
Gina the Dental Hygienist: OK. (applies fluoride) Now, let me give your teeth a final flossing.

Sam: What type of floss tape do you recommend?
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Personally, I like the flat tape. It's easier to get between the teeth.

Sam: OK, I'll remember that the next time I buy floss. How often should I floss?
Gina the Dental Hygienist: Everyday! Twice a day if possible! Some people like to floss after every meal, but that's not absolutely necessary.

Sam: (after finishing the cleaning) I feel much better. Thank you.
Gina the Dental Hygienist: My pleasure. Have a pleasant day, and remember to floss every day - at least once a day!

Key Vocabulary

to clean someone's teeth
dental hygienist
to fill cavities
gums
disease free
oral health
to lead to
plaque
to remove plaque
to floss
check-up
to rinse
fluoride
to apply fluoride
flavor
flossing
floss tape
floss after meals

Check your understanding with this multiple choice comprehension quiz.

By Kenneth Beare, About.com Guide

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