The word "decretions" is spelled with a silent "e" between the "r" and the "t". The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /dɪˈkriːʃənz/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a long "e" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a "sh" sound and a schwa sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a "z" sound. This word is commonly misspelled as "decreations", which is incorrect.
Decretions, also known as dental depositions, are deposits or accumulations that form on the surface of teeth, usually due to the precipitation of minerals from saliva or other oral fluids. They can appear as a thin, sticky, and colorless film called dental plaque, or as a hard, calcified and yellowish substance known as tartar or dental calculus.
These decretions are predominantly composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, forming a biofilm that adheres to the teeth and other oral surfaces. If not removed regularly through proper oral hygiene practices, decretions can lead to oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Dental plaque is the initial stage of decretions, forming within a few hours after tooth brushing. If not removed daily, it can harden and transform into tartar, a more tenacious substance that cannot be eliminated by brushing alone. The mineralization process of tartar continues as calcium salts from saliva are deposited onto the plaque, gradually solidifying it.
Professional dental cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist is often required to remove the hardened tartar effectively. Regular brushing, flossing, and mouth rinsing are essential preventive measures to control decretions and maintain good oral hygiene. Dentists may also recommend specific oral care products or treatments to manage decretions and reduce the risk of associated dental problems.
The term "decretions" is derived from the Latin word "decretio" which means a decree or a command. It comes from the verb "decernere" which means to decide, to judge, or to decree. The English word "decretions" is formed by adding the suffix "-ion" which is commonly used to form nouns from verbs in Latin and has a similar function in English. Hence, "decretions" refers to the acts or instances of decreeing or giving authoritative orders.