Think back to the last time you were in the dentist's chair. The dentist and dental hygienists likely had discussions that included an array of dental terms you did not understand. Perhaps you struggled to formulate a question or concern as you were unsure of which word or phrase to use.
Below, we take a look at some of the most important dental terminology so you can understand exactly what your dentist is talking about.
Amalgam fillings are alloys comprised of silver and mercury. We will place these fillings in the teeth after removing the decayed portion. While amalgam fillings are quite strong, they are not as visually impressive as the composite variety. This is why amalgam fillings tend to be more common on teeth toward the back of the mouth rather than the front.
A set of crowns that covers the opening of one or several missing teeth.
Caries is another term for tooth decay or cavities.
Composite fillings are restorative materials we apply to the teeth to provide an aesthetically uniform smile. You can have several composite fillings in your mouth and no one will even be able to tell. Composite fillings are not as strong as the amalgam variety but are one of the most attractive fillings.
People who lose several teeth or significantly damage their teeth will find dentures to be quite helpful. We can provide these artificial teeth in partial form or a complete set. If necessary, a limited set of denture teeth can also fill gaps.
An oral health professional who specializes in treating damage to the pulp portion of the tooth. This is usually performed with a root canal.
This is a tooth that pushes out of the gums in order to take its intended position. A tooth that is partially erupted does not complete this process of emergence.
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. Thankfully, gingivitis is reversible with the assistance of an experienced dentist.
A tooth that does not fully erupt due to interference from other matter within the mouth.
This is the misalignment of the jaw or teeth.
Mouthguards are commonly worn at night to prevent damage from teeth grinding or clenching.
The portion of the teeth used when chewing.
A thin and colorless layer of film that forms along the teeth. Only your dentist has the tools and expertise necessary to clean plaque away.
Porcelain that is applied in a thin layer to the front portion of the teeth for corrective or aesthetic purposes.
This is a plastic material that is used for bonding purposes in tooth replacement and restorative procedures.
A plastic coating applied to the teeth that serve the purpose of guarding against decay.
Call (703) 745-3227 to schedule an appointment with Titan Dental Care in our Sterling dental office.
General dentistry consists of a lot of routine oral health care, which also happens to include restoring teeth that are in bad shape due to damage. Common damage may include cracks, chips, or cavities, all of which can be addressed with the help of different dental restorations. Continue reading to find out what dental restoration…
One of the most common dental procedures that general dentists offer is a dental bridge. This is a method of teeth replacement that replaces one missing tooth or a section of missing teeth. A dental bridge most notably addresses a cosmetic concern, but it may offer functional and oral health benefits as well. It is helpful…
Have you ever suffered from an injury that left your teeth in pain? How do you know if you have an injured tooth? How can it be fixed? An injured tooth doesn’t have to be the end of the world, even though there are some instances where it can be fatal. Keep your teeth healthy…
You have probably dealt with a toothache more than once in your lifetime. Sometimes, the pain goes away on its own. When that happens, you likely bit down on something too hard or ground your teeth. However, it is more common than not that a toothache indicates that something is wrong. So, even if the…
Clear braces are orthodontic appliances that are designed to blend in with the patient's teeth. These devices can be used to treat adults and children dealing with orthodontic issues. Clear braces are a preferred option over metal braces, which are conspicuous devices that can get in the way of any smile.When metal braces were the…
Are you looking into your teeth straightening options? Orthodontics is a popular part of the dental arena, as straight teeth are desirable. Not only because straight teeth make for a pleasant-looking smile, but it is also important for teeth to be in their correct positions in order to support good oral health. Choosing a general…