Dental Glossary
Abscess
Infection in an isolated area which can cause pus to form.
Abutment
An artificial part that helps support a bridge, denture or implant.
Amalgam
A metal/mercury silver filling.
Anesthetic
A substance used to numb or reduce in pain in selected areas of the mouth.
Anterior
Refers to the direction towards the front of the mouth.
Apex
Bottom or end of tooth structure.
Bitewing
An x-ray taken to see decay between teeth and bone foundation.
Bleaching
To lighten or whiten teeth.
Bridge
A dental restoration used to fill missing space/teeth.
Bruxism
Clenching or grinding of the teeth.
Canine
A long pointed tooth also known as eye tooth
Canker sore
Small, sore lesions on the inside of the mouth. Typically yellow or white in color.
Crown
Also known as cap that covers tooth structure due to either tooth has broken or has too much existing filling which overtime can cause tooth to fracture or break/ a crown is permanently cemented to remaining tooth structure.
Decay
Breakdown of tooth structure due to bacteria that must be evaluated and treated.
Denture
Removable appliances that take the place of missing teeth to assist in chewing and aesthetics.
Distal
Dental terminology specifying to back portion of tooth.
Endodontics
Specialty office in dentistry that handles root canals by the removal of blood supply from a tooth.
Fluoride
A mineral found in our bones and teeth to help protect against decay. It is often generated in toothpaste, rinses and gel to strengthen tooth structures.
Gingivitis
A form of gum disease that causes inflammation of gums due to poor oral hygiene resulting in gums that become sore, swollen and red.
Implant
A titanium screw like piece that integrates into the bone. Over time it creates a foundation for an artificial crown or tooth to adapt to.
Lingual
Tongue side positioning in the mouth.
Mesial
Tooth positioning directing to the middle.
Molar
Larger teeth that erupt in the back of the mouth.
Mouthguard
A protective device usually worn to prevent clenching grinding and or to protect teeth in sport activities.
Nightguard
Worn to protect teeth against clenching and grinding.
Occlusal
Surface area on top of tooth.
Palate
Top or roof of mouth.
Posterior
Farthest position back on tooth
Prophylaxis/Prophy
The cleaning of teeth done to prevent gum disease.
Root
End of tooth structure, supports tooth.
Root Canal
The nerve inside of tooth that has blood supply and needs to be removed due to infection/ tooth structure will still be intact
Scaling
The use of certain instruments to remove plaque and debris above and below the gumline.
