Glossary of Dental Terms

• A

• Abscess:

  An abscess is a localized collection of pus in the gums, usually due to an infection.

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• B

• Bridge:

  An option for replacing a missing tooth (or teeth.) A bridge uses false teeth that are affixed to the teeth or implants on either side of the gap created by the missing tooth/teeth.

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• C

• Caries:

  Dental caries is the scientific term for tooth decay. It is an infectious condition that deteriorates the tooth enamel and the layer beneath it (the dentin) by producing an acid. Dental caries are caused by the bacteria that build up in plaque on the teeth.

• Cavities:

  Caused when the hard enamel surface of the tooth is permanently damaged. Cavities happen when the teeth are not properly cared for which creates a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. Cavities are also caused by eating sugary snacks and drinks. The presence of caries always forms cavities.

• Crown:

  A tooth shaped cap that is placed over an old tooth. Crowns are usually used to restore the shape, appearance, and function of a tooth.

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• D

• Decay:

  Also known as dental caries, decay is the breakdown of a tooth caused by acids produced by bacteria.

• Dental Implant:

  A metal post or frame that has been surgically placed in the jawbone that allows a dentist to place replacement teeth in the mouth.

• Dental Sealants:

  A treatment done by a dentist to help prevent tooth decay by covering all the natural fissures in the teeth with a clear coating.

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• E

• Extraction:

  The removal of the tooth from its socket in the bone.

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• F

• Filling:

  Also called a dental restoration, a filling is used to restore the function and integrity of a tooth. This is necessary when a tooth has decay.

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• G

• Gingivitis:

  A common form of gum disease classified by swollen, red gums that may bleed when brushing your teeth.

• Gum Disease:

  Caused by the toxins created by the bacteria in the plaque along and under the gum line, gum disease is the abnormal loss of bone around the teeth and the inflammation of the soft tissue.

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• I

• Invisalign:

  A type of orthodontic treatment, Invisalign uses clear alingers  to straighten  teeth.

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• O

• Oral Hygiene:

  The practice of taking care of one’s mouth to keep teeth, gums and the oral cavity disease and problem free. Proper oral hygiene includes visiting the dentist at least 2 times a year, brushing twice a day, flossing and using mouthwash daily, and chewing sugar-free gum between meals.

• Orthodontics:

  A specialty branch of dentistry that focuses on the straightening of teeth and alignment of the jaw. Orthodontics is most often associated with braces and invisible alignment treatment.

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• P

• Periodontal Disease:

  Commonly referred to as gum disease. Early stage periodontal disease is called gingivitis. If it is left untreated, the bacterial infection will destroy all the all the attachment fibers and the bone that holds in the teeth, leading to tooth loss.

• Plaque:

  Caused by a mass of bacteria built up in the mouth creating a biofilm.

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• R

• Root Canal:

  The root canal is the pulp deep within a tooth. When one undergoes a procedure called a root canal, the infected pulp within the tooth is replaced with an inert material.

• Root Planing & Scaling:

  Done to prevent gum disease, root planing and scaling is the deep cleaning of the teeth below the gum line.

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• T

• Tartar:

  The hard calcification that forms regularly on teeth. Tartar acts as a housing for bacteria and if not removed on a regular basis will cause gum disease.