Welcome to our article on dental terms! In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common dental terms and definitions to help you communicate more effectively with your dentist or dental hygienist.
Dental Terms
Basic Dental Terms
In this section, we’ll cover some of the most common dental terms that you’ll need to know to communicate with your dentist or dental hygienist.
Tooth Anatomy
Before we dive into dental procedures and instruments, let’s start with the basics of tooth anatomy. Here are some key terms to know:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Crown | The visible part of the tooth above the gumline |
| Root | The part of the tooth that is anchored in the jawbone |
| Enamel | The hard, outer layer of the tooth |
| Dentin | The softer layer of the tooth beneath the enamel |
| Pulp | The soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels |
| Gumline | The point where the gum tissue meets the tooth |
Dental Procedures
Now that you know some basic tooth anatomy, let’s move on to some common dental procedures. Here are some terms you should know:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | The process of removing plaque and tartar from the teeth |
| Filling | A material used to fill a cavity and restore a damaged tooth |
| Extraction | The removal of a tooth |
| Root canal | A procedure to remove infected or damaged pulp from a tooth |
| Crown | A cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to protect it |
Dental Instruments
Finally, let’s take a look at some common dental instruments. Here are a few terms you should know:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mirror | A small, handheld mirror used to view the teeth and gums |
| Probe | A small, pointed instrument used to check for cavities |
| Scaler | A tool used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth |
| Drill | A tool used to remove decay and prepare a tooth for a filling |
| Forceps | A tool used to grasp and remove teeth |
Advanced Dental Terms
In this section, we’ll cover some advanced dental terms that are commonly used in the field.
Prosthodontics
Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the design, manufacture, and fitting of artificial replacements for teeth, such as dentures, bridges, and implants. Here are some terms you may encounter in prosthodontics:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Abutment | A tooth or implant that supports a dental prosthesis. |
| Pontic | An artificial tooth used to replace a missing tooth in a dental bridge. |
| Overdenture | A removable denture that is supported by remaining natural teeth or implants. |
| Osseointegration | The process by which an implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue. |
Example sentence: “The dentist recommended an overdenture supported by implants for the patient’s missing teeth.”
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws. Here are some terms you may encounter in orthodontics:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Braces | Orthodontic appliances used to align and straighten teeth. |
| Retainer | A device used to maintain the position of teeth after orthodontic treatment. |
| Malocclusion | A misalignment of teeth or jaws. |
| Palatal expander | A device used to widen the upper jaw. |
Example sentence: “The orthodontist recommended braces to correct the patient’s malocclusion.”
Periodontics
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. Here are some terms you may encounter in periodontics:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Gingivitis | Inflammation of the gums. |
| Periodontitis | A more advanced form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. |
| Scaling and root planing | A non-surgical procedure used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. |
| Gum graft | A surgical procedure used to replace or augment gum tissue. |
Example sentence: “The periodontist recommended scaling and root planing to treat the patient’s gingivitis.”
Endodontics
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and injuries to the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. Here are some terms you may encounter in endodontics:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Root canal | A procedure used to remove infected or damaged pulp from the root canal of a tooth. |
| Apicoectomy | A surgical procedure used to remove the tip of a tooth’s root. |
| Pulpotomy | A procedure used to remove the diseased portion of a tooth’s pulp. |
| Periapical abscess | An infection at the tip of a tooth’s root. |
Example sentence: “The endodontist recommended a root canal to treat the patient’s infected pulp.”
Dental Terms: Dental Specialties
General Dentistry
General dentistry is the most common dental specialty. It involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases. General dentists perform routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They also educate patients on how to maintain good oral hygiene.
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialty that focuses on correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws. Orthodontists use braces, aligners, and other appliances to straighten teeth and improve the bite. The goal is to improve the function and appearance of the teeth and jaws.
Endodontics
Endodontics is a specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the root of the tooth. Endodontists perform root canal treatments to remove infected or damaged pulp and save the tooth.
Periodontics
Periodontics is a specialty that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Periodontists treat gum disease and other conditions that affect the tissues and bones that support the teeth.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialty that involves the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. Oral surgeons perform procedures such as tooth extractions, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery.
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry is a specialty that focuses on the oral health of children. Pediatric dentists provide preventive and restorative care for children’s teeth and gums. They also educate parents on how to maintain good oral hygiene habits in their children.
Prosthodontics
Prosthodontics is a specialty that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with missing or damaged teeth. Prosthodontists use dental implants, dentures, and other appliances to restore the function and appearance of the teeth and jaws.
Dental Terms: Common Dental Abbreviations
If you are new to learning dental terminology, you may find that dental professionals use many abbreviations that you may not be familiar with. These abbreviations are used to save time and space when documenting dental procedures, diagnoses, and treatments. Here are some of the most common dental abbreviations you may come across:
Dental Terms for Procedures
- FMD: Full Mouth Debridement
- SRP: Scaling and Root Planing
- RCT: Root Canal Therapy
- FGC: Full Gold Crown
- PFM: Porcelain Fused to Metal Crown
- E-Max: Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic Crown
- Veneer: Thin Porcelain or Composite Resin Shell
- Filling: Restorative Material Used to Fill Cavities
- Extraction: Removal of a Tooth
Dental Terms for Diagnoses
- CAV: Cavities
- PERIO: Periodontal Disease
- TMJ: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
- BRUX: Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
- EROSION: Tooth Erosion
- ABSC: Dental Abscess
- GING: Gingivitis
- PERIC: Pericoronitis
Dental Terms for Treatments
- FLUOR: Fluoride Treatment
- SEAL: Dental Sealant
- BLEACH: Teeth Whitening
- IMPL: Dental Implant
- BRIDGE: Dental Bridge
- DENT: Dentures
- ORTHO: Orthodontic Treatment
- INVIS: Invisalign Treatment
Dental Terms in Context
Parts of the Tooth
Knowing the different parts of a tooth is essential for understanding dental procedures and discussions with your dentist. Here are some common terms:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Crown | The visible part of the tooth above the gumline |
| Root | The part of the tooth below the gumline |
| Enamel | The hard, protective outer layer of the tooth |
| Dentin | The softer layer of the tooth under the enamel |
| Pulp | The soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels |
Example sentence: “The dentist found a cavity in my tooth’s enamel and had to remove the decay down to the dentin layer.”
Dental Procedures
Dental procedures can be intimidating, but understanding the terminology can help ease anxiety. Here are some common terms:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Extraction | The removal of a tooth |
| Filling | A material used to fill a cavity and restore the tooth |
| Root canal | A procedure to remove infected or damaged pulp from the tooth |
| Crown | A cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its function and appearance |
Example sentence: “The dentist recommended a root canal for my infected tooth, followed by a crown to protect it.”
Dental Instruments
Dental instruments can look intimidating, but understanding their names can help you communicate with your dentist. Here are some common terms:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mirror | Used to view teeth and gums |
| Probe | Used to measure the depth of a cavity or gum pockets |
| Drill | Used to remove decay from a tooth |
| Scaler | Used to remove tartar from teeth |
Example sentence: “The dentist used a mirror and probe to examine my teeth before using a drill to remove a cavity.”
Dental Problems
Knowing the terminology for dental problems can help you understand your diagnosis and treatment options. Here are some common terms:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cavity | A hole in the tooth caused by decay |
| Gingivitis | Inflammation of the gums |
| Periodontitis | Advanced gum disease that can lead to tooth loss |
| Abscess | A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection |
Example sentence: “The dentist diagnosed me with gingivitis and recommended a deep cleaning to treat it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the technical term for a tooth cavity?
The technical term for a tooth cavity is dental caries. It is a bacterial infection that causes demineralization of the tooth structure, leading to the formation of a hole or cavity.
What are some common dental procedures?
Some common dental procedures include dental fillings, root canals, teeth whitening, dental implants, and orthodontic treatments.
What is the difference between a root canal and a filling?
A filling is a dental procedure used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. A root canal, on the other hand, is a procedure used to treat an infected or inflamed tooth pulp. In a root canal, the infected pulp is removed, and the tooth is filled and sealed.
What are some positive dental hygiene habits?
Some positive dental hygiene habits include brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
What are some common dental tools and their uses?
Some common dental tools include dental mirrors, probes, scalers, and drills. Dental mirrors are used to help dentists see the inside of your mouth. Probes are used to measure the depth of cavities or gum pockets. Scalers are used to remove plaque and tartar from teeth. Drills are used to remove decayed tooth structure and prepare teeth for fillings or other restorations.
What is the meaning of the term ‘occlusion’ in dentistry?
In dentistry, occlusion refers to the way your teeth come together when you bite down or chew. A good occlusion is one where your teeth fit together properly, allowing you to chew and speak without discomfort. An improper occlusion can lead to problems such as tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches.
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