You are on page 1of 20

Dentistry Definitions

ABSCESS - a local infection. A Severe decay, periodontal disease, or trauma


are causative factors. It is characterized by swelling and pain. If an abscess
ruptures, it will be accompanied by sudden relief from pain due to a reduction in
ssure. A foul taste may also be noticed.
ABUTMENT - a term used to denote the teeth on either side of a missing tooth.
ACRYLIC RESIN - the plastic widely used in dentistry to make dentures.
ACTIVE ERUPTION - the emergence of the tooth from its position in the jaw.
ADHESION - the sticking together of unlike substances
ADJUSTMENT - a modification made upon a dental prosthesis after it has been
completed and inserted into the mouth.
AEROBIC BACTERIA - bacteria which grow in oxygen rich environments; in the
oral cavity the bacteria are found outside the sulcus.
AFFERENT - nerves that carry sensory messages toward the brain.
AGAR - a gelatin like substance obtained from seaweed; used in impression
materials.
ALGINATE - an impression material used by dentists for making stone models.
ALVEOLECTOMY - an operation where portions of the alveolar bone are
removed.
ALVEOLAR BONE - the bone surrounding the root of the tooth; loss of this bone
is typically associated with severe periodontal disease.
ALVEOLAR CREST - the highest portion of alveolar bone.
ALVEOLAR EMINENCE - outline of the root on the facet portion of the bone.
ALVEOLAR PROCESS - the portion of the mandible or maxilla that surrounds
the root of a tooth.
ALVEOLUS - the bony socket in which the root of the tooth sits.
AMALGAM - or silver filling; an alloy in which one of the metals is mercury. Below
are the approximate percentages of the component elements:

Mercury Hg 50%
Silver Ag 35%
Tin Sn 13%
Copper Cu 0-3%
Zinc Zn 0-1%
ANAEROBIC BACTERIA - bacteria that do not need oxygen to grow; they are
generally associated with periodontal disease.
ANODONTIA - the developmental absence of teeth.
ANTIBIOTIC - substance produced by or derived from bacteria which is able to
inhibit or kill other bacteria.
ANTIMICROBIAL - destroying or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
ANATOMICAL CROWN - the portion of the tooth that is covered with enamel.
ANTISCEPTIC - A chemical agent which can be applied to living tissues to
destroy germs.
ANESTHESIA - medication which relieves the sensation of pain.
ANNIVERSARY YEAR - begins on the day of the month that the patients'
insurance became effective.
ANOMALY - a deviation from the normal or expected outcome.
ANTAGONIST - a structure that opposes or counteracts another structure.
ANTERIOR - situated in front of.
ANTERIOR TEETH - the front teeth (incisors and cupids).
ANUG - Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis. An acute, painful condition
characterized by severe gingival redness, spontaneous bleeding, foul breath and
pain.
APEX - the pointed extremity of a structure.
APICAL FORAMEN - the opening at the end of the root of a tooth through which
the tooth receives its nerve and blood supply.
APPOSITION - the laying down of, or addition of.
ARCH - a curvature; both the maxillary and mandibular ridge form a horseshoe
shaped arch.

ARTICULATING PAPER - carbon paper; placed between the upper and lower
teeth to mark contact.
ARTICULATOR - a mechanical device used to replicate functional movements of
the jaw to casts.
ASSIGNMENT OF BENEFITS - a clause in an insurance policy that allows the
insured person to direct the carrier's payment to the dentist.
ASPIRATOR - The tube-like straw which the dentist place in your mouth for
suction.
ASYMMETRY/ SYMMETRY - To be esthetic, tooth Size, shape and gum contour
should be as close to identical from one side of the mouth to the other. Ideally,
the incisal edges of your teeth should follow the contour of the upper lip.
ATTACHMENT LEVEL - a numerical measure of the amount of attachment of the
periodontal ligament to a tooth; the number is generally determined by combining
a pocket depth measurement with a measurement of gingival recession.
Attachment level is considered one of the most important measures of
periodontal disease progress or treatment success
ATTRITION - the wearing away of tooth structure through normal use (ie.
chewing, biting, etc.).
AXON - the process that carries impulses away from the cell body of a nerve.
BENEFIT YEAR - generally begins on the month of the year that the employer
purchased the plan.
BICUSPIDS - or having two cusps. The first and second bicuspids; they are the
fourth and fifth teeth from the center of the mouth, respectively. These are the
back teeth that are used for chewing.
BIFURCATION - having two branches, or dividing into two parts.
BILATERAL - both sides.
BIRTHDAY RULE - applies when a child is covered under both parent's plans;
the plan of the parent who's birthday (month and day, not year) falls earlier in the
calendar year is billed first (in cases of divorce or separation, other factors
pertain).
BITEWING - a single X-ray that shows the upper and lower teeth's biting
surfaces on the same film.

BLEACHING - cosmetic whitening of teeth using peroxide.


BOLUS - chewed up mass of food and saliva.
BONDING - the covering of a tooth surface to correct stained or damaged teeth.
BRIDGE - a fixed appliance (prosthesis) that replaces missing teeth. A bridge is a
series of attached crowns (abutments and pontics).
BRUXISM - or the grinding of teeth, usually occurs during sleep.
BUCCAL - or pertaining to the cheek.
BUCCINATOR MUSCLE - the cheek muscle.
CALCIFICATION - the process of hardening through the deposition of lime salts.
CALCULUS - hard calcium like deposits which form on teeth and dentures.
CANAL - the narrow chamber inside the root of a tooth that contains nerve tissue
and blood vessels.
CANINES - so named because the correspond to the long teeth of a dog.
CAPITATION PLAN - a plan whereby the dentist is contracted with the
administrator to provide dental services to persons covered under the program in
return for payment on a per-capita basis.
CARIOGENIC - or cancer-causing
CARIES - medical term for decay; caused by decalcification of the enamel and
disintegration of the dentin by acid producing bacteria.
CARIOGENIC - or decay-causing
CARRIER - the party (usually an insurance company) that pays claims and
collects premiums.
CARRYOVER - If the deductible was paid last year, the next year (or quarter,
Jan., Feb. and March) they do not have to pay the deductible again.
CAST - reproduction of the mouth in stone or plaster.
CEMENT - a dental material used to seal inlays, onlays, and crowns; also used
for pupal protection.

CEMENTUM - makes up the dull yellow outer surface of the roots.


CENTRIC OCCLUSION - the relationship of the occlusal surfaces of one arch to
those in the opposing arch at physical rest position.
CENTRIC RELATION - the relationship of the maxillary arch to the mandibular
arch when the condyle is in its most retracted position.
CERVICAL - pertaining to the neck of a tooth.
CERVIX - the neck of the tooth; the area where the crown joins the root or the
enamel joins the cementum.
CHEEK POUCH - the area of the mouth inside the cheek.
CHEMOTHERAPEUTIC - an agent of a chemical nature which exerts an
antimicrobial effect.
CINGULUM - a raised area on the lingual surface of anterior teeth.
CLASP - the metal part of a partial denture and which helps to retain, support,
and stabilize the appliance.
CLEFT PALATE - an opening in the palate.
CLINICAL CROWN - that portion of the tooth visible in the mouth, extending
from the occlusal or incisal edge to the crest of the free gingiva.
CLOSED PANEL - a plan where the covered patient only receives benefits if the
services are provided by a dentist contracted with the plan's administrator.
COL - a "V-shaped depression in the facial-lingual interdental papilla located
cervically to the contact area of the tooth.
COMMUNITION - crushing or grinding to a powder.
COMPOSITE FILLING - tooth-colored restorative material. The word "composite"
refers to the mixture of filler particles in a liquid resin. Commonly, the resin used
is BIS-GMA (bis-gammamethylmetacrylate). Filler particles are added to alter the
color and wear characteristics. Common filler particles are silica, aluminum, zinc,
tin, copper and iron.
CONCAVE - curving inward away from the viewer.
CONTACT AREA - that portion of the proximal surface of a tooth that touches the

adjacent tooth.
CONVEX - curving outward toward the viewer.
COSMETIC DENTISTRY - aesthetic improvement of the color and shape of teeth
performed by a general dentist.
CREST - a prominence or ridge.
CROSS CONTAMINATION - Passing disease indirectly from one patient to
another through the use of improper sterilization procedures.
CROWN - full coverage for a tooth (used when the tooth cannot be restored by a
filling).
CURETTAGE - the surgical scraping of bacteria from soft tissue. This is a
periodontal procedure and is usually performed one quadrant at a time.
CUSPID - the third tooth from the center of the mouth towards the back, also
known as canines.
CUSPS - elevated points on the chewing surfaces of back teeth (posterior
teeth).
CUSTOM TRAY - an individual tray; custom made to fit a patient's mouth.
DEBRIDEMENT - treatment of a bacterial infection by removing irritants
(bacteria, calculus) from the periodontal pocket so as to allow healing of
adjacent tissues.
DECALCIFICATION - The loss of calcium from your teeth, weakening the teeth
and making them more susceptible to decay
DECIDUOUS TEETH - baby teeth; teeth that exfoliate or shed.
DEDUCTIBLE - the amount paid by the patient before the carrier begins benefit
payments.
DEGLUTITION - swallowing.
DEMINERALIZATION - loss of mineral from tooth enamel just below the surface
in a carious lesion; usually appearing as a white area on the tooth surface.
DENDRITE - the process that conducts impulses toward the cell body of a nerve.

DENTAL MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION (D.M.O.) - a legal entity that accepts


the responsibility of providing services at a fixed price.
DENTAL RESIN - a dental material applied to the tooth which is used in cases of
severe dentinal hypersensitivity; usually not used unless all other treatment
attempts have failed.
DENTAL VARNISH - a hypersensitivity treatment which sometimes contains
sodium fluoride; applied to the tooth surface, covering the outer surface of dentin
and thus blocking transmission of stimuli to the pulp.
DENTIN - the hard, yellowish tissue underlying the enamel and cementum; it
makes up the major bulk of the tooth.
DENTINAL TUBULES - microscopic canals that run from the outside of the
dentin to the nerve inside the tooth.
DENTITION - the natural teeth as a unit.
DENTURE - a removable appliance (prosthesis) that replaces missing teeth in
either the upper or lower jaw.
DESENSITIZATION - the blocking of painful stimuli which cause dentinal
hypersensitivity.
DESICCATE - to make dry; to remove all moisture.
DESQUAMATION - a peeling of gingival tissue; in cases of desquamative
gingivitis, the tissues may appear smooth and shiny, with patches of bright red
and gray. Surface tissue may peel away, exposing a raw, bleeding, painful
surface.
DEVELOPMENTAL DEPRESSION - a concavity in a surface that formed while
the tooth was developing.
DIAGNOSIS - the process of identifying the nature of a disorder.
DIAGNOSTIC - procedures performed by the dentist to identify what's going on
in the mouth.
DIASTEMA - a space between the teeth.
DILACERATION - an abnormal tooth that where both the crown and the root are
twisted.
DIPHYODONT - having two successive sets of teeth.

DIRECT CONTAMINATION - Direct contact with impurities or germs.


DISINFECTION - A cleaning process which destroys the majority of
microorganism, but not highly resistant forms such as bacterial and mycotic
spores.
DISINFECTANT - A chemical agent which is applied onto inanimate surfaces to
destroy germs.
DISPOSABLE MATERIALS - materials intended for one-use and discarded. (e.g.:
Gloves, paper gowns, cotton rolls, etc.)
DISTAL - the surface of the tooth farthest from the midline of the dental arch.
DIVERGENT - spread.
EDEMA - swelling resulting from fluid accumulation in gingival tissues.
EDENTULOUS - having no teeth.
EFFERENT - the nerves that carry motor messages away from the brain.
EMBRASURE - the space between two teeth created by the sloping away of the
mesial and distal surfaces.
EMINENCE - a prominence.
EMPRESS - Type of porcelain crown and porcelain veneer/laminate. The
advantage Empress is that it blends very nicely with the surrounding teeth; it is
very esthetic.
ENAMEL - the hard, white shiny surface of the crown; composed of 95% calcium
hydroxyapatite.
ENDODONTICS (ENDO) - the treatment of diseases or injuries that affect the
root tip or nerve of the tooth.
EROSION - The dissolution of tooth structure due to the presence of gastric
juices or citrus. Erosion seldom occurs alone; it is often accompanied by attrition
or abrasion (or both) to varying degrees. Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and
juices should be avoid in patients with signs of erosion.
ERUPTION - the moving of the tooth occlusally.
EXCLUSION - services not covered by a dental plan.

EXFOLIATE - to shed.
EXPLORER - a probe used to detect cavity growth.
EXTERNAL - on the outer surface.
EXTRACTION - the removal of teeth.
EXTRAORAL - Outside the mouth.
FACIAL - the surface next to the face; the outer surface of a tooth resting against
the cheeks or lips.
FEE SCHEDULE - a set amount paid by the insurance company regardless of
the doctor's fee.
FILTRUM - the dimple or indentation under the nose directly above the upper lip.
FISSURE - cleft-like grooves in the chewing surface of the back teeth.
FISTULA - an abnormal passage formed in the gum tissue through which an
abscessed tooth drains.
FLUORIDE - topical application of a gel or liquid that prevents decay.
FLUOROSIS - discoloration of the enamel due to excessive fluoride absorption
(greater than one 1 part per million) into the bloodstream, also called enamel
mottling.
FORAMEN - an opening in bone.
FORNEX - vault or arch shaped.
FOSSA - a shallow depression on the lingual (tongue) surfaces of some front
teeth.
FREE GINGIVA - the marginal part of the gingival (gums) that can be deflected
from the tooth surface; it forms a collar around the tooth.
FRENUM - a fold of mucous membrane that connects two parts.
FULL MOUTH X-RAYS - X-rays showing all the teeth. Includes 14 periapicals
and 4 bitewings, also known as a complete series.
FURCATION - an area where the root divides.

FURROW - a groove.
GALVANIC CURRENT - a current of electricity produced by chemical action
between two metals suspended in liquid.
GENDER RULE - when a child is covered under both parent's plans, the father's
plan is billed first (in cases of divorce or separation other factors must be
considered).
GENERAL ANESTHESIA - relieves the sensation of pain.
GENERAL DENTIST - primary care provider for patients in all age groups.
GERIATRIC DENTIST - general dentist who primarily treats senior citizens.
GINGIVA - the soft tissue surrounding teeth, also known as the gums.
GINGIVAL CREST - the prominent edge of occlusal or incisal gingiva.
GINGIVAL HYPERTROPHY - The abnormal enlargement of the gingiva
surrounding the teeth caused by poor oral hygiene or the use of certain
medications.
GINGIVECTOMY - the removal of soft tissue surrounding the tooth; typically
used in the treatment of periodontal disease.
GINGIVITIS - inflamed and swollen gum tissue most commonly caused by
plaque. If left untreated, may lead to periodontitis.
GOLDON PROPORTION - The guidelines which dentists use in determining the
most esthetic appearance of a particular tooth (teeth need to maintain a certain
height to width ratio to look their best.)
GROOVE - a long, narrow depression.
GUTTA PERCHA - material used in the filling of root canals.
HANDPIECE - the instrument used to hold and revolve burs in dental operations.
HEAT-STERILIZING - Use of an autoclave or dry-heat sterilizer to kill all potential
disease-causing agents that remain following patient treatment. Any instruments
that is not heat stable and cannot tolerate high temperatures should be
thoroughly cleaned and soaked in disinfectant chemicals.
HETERODONT - different types of teeth within the same dentition (ie. incisors,

canines, molars).
HISTO-DIFFERENTIATION - development into a specialized tissue.
HISTOLOGY - the study of tissues.
HOMODONT - the presence of only one type of tooth in the dentition.
HYPERPLASIA - over-growth of a part; an increase in the number of cells.
HYPERSENSITIVITY - a sharp, sudden painful reaction in teeth when exposed
to hot, cold, chemical, mechanical or osmotic (sweet or salt) stimuli.
IDEAL OCCLUSION - a complete harmonious relationship of the teeth and
masticatory system.
IMMEDIATE DENTURE - a complete or partial denture made before the natural
teeth are extracted.
IMPACTION - an unerupted or partially erupted tooth that will not fully erupt into
the mouth because of an obstruction.
IMPLANT - a post that is implanted into bone. A crown, bridge, or denture is then
placed over the implant to restore function and esthetics.
IMPRESSION TRAY - formed in the general shape of the mouth, used for taking
impressions.
INCENTIVE PROGRAM - a dental plan where the percentage of benefits
increase each year as the patient receives regular, annual dental care
(preventive treatment). If the patient fails to go to the dentist each year, the
percentage drops back to where it started.
INCISORS - the central and lateral incisors; the first and second teeth from the
midline of the mouth.
INLAY - a gold, porcelain, or composite custom-made filling cemented into the
tooth. If it covers the tips of the teeth, it is called an onlay.
INCISAL EDGE - the cutting edge, ridge, or surface of anterior teeth.
INSERTION - the movable end of a muscle.
INTERCUSPATION - interlocking; a cusp-to-fossa relationship of the maxillary to
mandibular teeth.

INTERPROXIMAL - the space between two adjacent surfaces.


IINTRAORAL - Inside your mouth.
INVAGINATION - to enclose within.
INVISALIGN - The system is a way to move teeth without the use of conventional
brackets and archwires. Basically, a series of clear plastic trays are computer
fabricated with each tray gradually shifting the teeth into proper alignment. The
system works best for minor tooth movements.
IONTOPHOR - the process of introducing a drug through the dental enamel by
use of an electrical current; often used in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity.
IRRIGATION - the technique of using a solution to wash out your mouth.
JAW - a common name for the maxilla or mandible.
LABIAL - relating to the lip; another name for the facial surface of anterior teeth
(next to the lip).
LAMINATE VENEER - a porcelain, or composite covering which is bonded to
restore discolored, or damaged teeth.
LESION - any wound or local degeneration.
LINGUAL - the surface of a tooth nearest the tongue; relating to the tongue.
LOBE - center of tooth formation.
LOCAL ANESTHESIA - relieves the sensation of pain in a localized area.
MALOCCLUSION - any deviation from the ideal positioning of the teeth or jaws.
MAMELON - small elevations of enamel present on the incisors as they erupt.
MANAGED CARE PLANS - plans that restrict the type, level, and frequency of
treatment; these plans limit access to care and control the level of service
reimbursement (ie. DMO's, Capitation plans, and Closed Panel plans).
MANDIBLE - the lower jaw.
MARYLAND BRIDGE - A type of Bonded Bridge. Its main difference from
conventional bridges is in the reduced amount of abutment preparation
necessary. Only the lingual surfaces of the abutments are reduced.

MASTICATION - chewing.
MASTICATORY SYSTEM - the teeth and surrounding structures: jaws,
temporomandibular joint, muscles, lips, and tongue.
MAXILLAE - the upper jaw.
MEDIAL - relating to the middle or medial plane.
MENTAL - relating to the chin.
MERCURY - a metal, component of amalgam fillings.
MESIAL - is the surface of the tooth nearest the midline of the dental arch.
MICRO ABRASION - a drill-free technique using an instrument resembling a tiny
sand blaster that delivers tiny aluminum oxide particles to the surface of teeth.
MIDLINE - imaginary line through the middle of an object which divides it into two
equal parts.
MIXED DENTITION- The developmental stage when both deciduous and
permanent teeth are present.
MOLAR - the first, second and third molars; these are the sixth, seventh and
eighth teeth from the center of the mouth, respectively.
MOUTHGUARD - a soft-fitted device which protects teeth against impact or
injury.
MUCOSA - the thin, outer pink or red membrane lining the inside of the oral
cavity.
NASAL - relating to the nose.
NEURON - a nerve cell.
NEOPLASM - a proliferation of cells interfering with surrounding tissues; refers to
cancer.
NIGHTGUARD - a removable acrylic appliance to minimize the effects of grinding
(bruxism) and TMJ associated problems.
OBLIQUE RIDGE - a linear elevation that transverses a surface.

OCCLUDE - to bring together.


OCCLUSAL - relating to the biting surface of teeth.
OCCLUSAL EQUILIBRATION - process of refining and perfecting the occlusion.
OCCLUSAL PLANE - The imaginary surface on which upper and lower teeth
meet.
OCCLUSAL TRAUMA - results from excessive force placed on a normal
dentition, i.e. grinding and clenching of teeth. If left uncontrolled, occlusal trauma
may result in rapid attachment loss and bone destruction.
OCCLUSION - the relationship of the teeth in a closed position in both the
maxillary and mandibular arch.
ONLAY - A laboratory processed restoration made of metal, porcelain or acrylic
that replaces one or more of cusps of a tooth.
OPAQUING - covering the metal work of a prosthesis with a material so that it
doesn't show through.
OPEN BITE - increased distance between the two arches; space between the
front upper and lower teeth when the back teeth are touching.
ORAL SURGERY (O.S.) - surgery of the mouth.
ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON - treats and surgically corrects
diseases, injuries and defects of the mouth and jaws.
ORAL PATHOLOGIST - examines oral tissues for evidence of suspected
abnormalities such as cancer.
ORIGIN - the fixed end of a muscle.
ORTHODONTICS - a branch of dentistry dealing with irregularities of the teeth
and their correction.
ORTHODONTIST - designs and applies corrective and supportive appliances,
braces, to realign crooked teeth.
OSTEOBLASTS - Cells which aid in the growth and development of teeth and
bones.
OSTEOCLASTS - Cells which help remodel bone.

PALATE - roof of the mouth.


PALATAL SURFACE - the surface of the maxillary teeth nearest the palate.
PALMERS NOTATION- An identification system for teeth; widely used to
designate individual teeth amongst orthodontists.
PANOREX - a single, large x-ray taken outside of the mouth that shows all the
teeth on one film.
PARTIAL DENTURE - a removable appliance that replaces some of the teeth in
either the upper or lower jaw.
PASSIVE ERUPTION - describes the process by which teeth continue to erupt
into the mouth as tooth structure is lost to attrition and wear.
PEDODONTICS (PEDO) - the treatment of children's teeth.
PELLICLE - the first step in plaque formation; a clear, thin covering containing
proteins and lipids (fats) found in saliva. It is formed within seconds after a tooth
surface is cleaned.
PERIAPICAL ABSCESS - infection of the pulp of the tooth and tissues
surrounding the base of the tooth.
PERICORONITIS - infection of the tissue overlying a partially erupted tooth.
Treatment involves keeping this tissue clean and free of bacteria.
PERIODONTAL CHARTING - measures the pocket depth resulting from
attachment loss between the gums and teeth.
PERIODONTAL LIGAMENT - the fibers which suspend the tooth in the bony
socket; it is attached at one end to the cementum, and at the other end to the
alveolar bone of the socket.
PERIODONTAL MAINTENANCE - cleaning of the teeth following periodontal
treatment, includes perio charting.
PERIODONTAL POCKET - the pocket that forms when the gums lose
attachment from the teeth.
PERIODONTAL PROBE - a dental instrument used to measure pocket depth.
PERIODONTITIS - a form of periodontal disease affecting adults resulting in
destruction of alveolar bone.

PERIODONTIUM - the structures that surround and support the teeth.


PERMANENT TEETH - the teeth that replace the deciduous or primary teeth.
PHONETICS - production of sounds.
PIT - a pinpoint depression in the occlusal surface of a tooth.
PLAQUE - a sticky film that accumulated on teeth.
PLASTER OF PARIS - gypsum, used to make models of teeth.
POLISHING - a dental procedure that removes stain, plaque and acquired
pellicle by using an abrasive polishing paste in a rubber cup attached to a slowspeed handpiece.
POLYPHYODONT - possessing several sets of teeth during a lifespan.
PONTIC - the component of a bridge that replaces the missing teeth.
PORCELAIN - a tooth-colored sand like material; much like enamel in
appearance.
PORCELAIN VENEER - ultra-thin shells of ceramic material bonded to the front
of the tooth.
POSTERIOR TEETH - the back teeth (Bicuspids and molars).
POSTPALATAL SEAL - an elevation of material on the back (tissue side) of a
denture; for the purpose of sealing the denture.
PREMOLARS - two-cusped teeth immediately in front of molars.
PREVENTIVE - a procedure performed to aid in preventing decay and/ or gum
disease.
PRIMARY PLAN - when a patient is covered by two insurance plans, the plan
that is billed first is the primary plan.
PRIMARY TEETH - the baby teeth, also known as the primary dentition.
PRIMATE SPACING - the normal spacing between primary anterior teeth.
PROCERA - Procera is a type of Porcelain Crown. They are one of the strongest
all-porcelain crowns available. Proceras framework is computer generated;
porcelain is then added to the structure.

PROPHYLAXIS - a general meaning to clean the teeth, also known as a prophy.


PROSTHODONTIST - constructs artificial appliances designed to restore and
maintain oral function by replacing missing teeth and other oral structures such
as dentures
PROXIMAL - nearest the point of attachment; the mesial or distal surface of the
tooth.
PROXIMAL SURFACE - the surface of the tooth adjacent to the next tooth; refers
to the mesial and distal surfaces.
PULP CANAL - the portion of the pulp in the root.
PULP CHAMBER - the portion of the pulp in the crown of the tooth.
PULP HORN - the portion of the pulp chamber that extends towards the cusp.
PULP TISSUE - the soft (not calcified) tissue in the pulp chamber; composed of
blood vessels and nerves.
QUADRANT - denotes one of four equal sections in the mouth. The upper right,
upper left, lower right or the lower left.
RADIOSURGERY - surgical technique that uses radio waves to produce a
pressureless, bloodless incision.
RAPHE - a union of soft tissue.
REBASE - process where only the tissue surface of a denture is replaced by new
material.
RELATIVE VALUE SCHEDULE (RVS) - procedures are given a point value
based upon their degree of difficulty. Each procedure is also assigned a given a
dollar amount. The dollar amount is then multiplied by the point value to
determine what the insurance company will pay.
RESORB - to dissolve into the tissue.
RESTORATIONS - any replacement for lost tooth structure or teeth (ie. bridges,
fillings, crowns and implants).
RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY - process of restoring missing, damaged or
diseased teeth to normal form and function.

RETAINER - a removable appliance used to maintain teeth in a given position


(usually worn at night).
RIDGE - a linear elevation.
ROOT CANAL THERAPY (RCT) - procedure used to save an abscessed tooth in
which the pulp chamber is cleaned out, disinfected, and filled with a permanent
filling.
ROOT PLANING - the removal of hard deposits from the root surface below the
gumline.
ROOT TRUNK - that portion of the root that is not bifurcated or trifurcated.
RUGAE - elevated folds or wrinkles of soft tissue in the front part of the palate.
SAGITTAL PLANE - An imaginary longitudinal vertical plane that divides the
mouth into two halves (left and right.)
SCALING - scraping of the tooth above the gums.
SEALANTS - the application of a clear resin over the biting surfaces of teeth to
prevent decay.
SECONDARY PLAN - when a patient is insured by two plans, the plan that is
billed second is the secondary plan.
SIGNATURE ON FILE - the insured person signs a form stating that the
payments made by the carrier go to the dentist. This form expires 1 year from the
date it is signed.
SLOUGHING - a condition in which the gingival tissue deadens and peels away
from the living tissue.
SOFT PALATE - the back 1/3 of the roof of the mouth composed of soft tissue.
SOMATIC - nerves that supply muscles.
SPACE MAINTAINERr - A dental appliance used to maintain space in the mouth.
STAIN, EXTRINSIC - stain located on the outside of the tooth surface originating
from external substances such as tobacco, coffee, tea or food; usually removed
by polishing the teeth with an abrasive prophylaxis paste.
STAIN, INTRINSIC - stain originating from the ingestion of certain materials or
chemical substances during tooth development, or from the presence of caries.

This stain is permanent and cannot be removed.


SUBMUCOSA - the layer of tissue under the mucous membrane.
SUCCEDANEOUS - a tooth that replaces or succeeds another.
SULCUS - a broad depression on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth.
SUPERGINGIVAL - the area above the gingival margin.
SUPERNUMERARY TEETH - Extra teeth, in addition to the development of the
normal 32.
SURGICAL TEMPLATE - a clear tray used in immediate denture fabrication.
SUTURE - a joining of two bones, also stitxhes.
TEETHING - baby teeth pushing through gums.
TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT (TMJ) - temporo (temporal bone), mandibular
(lower jaw). This is the connecting hinge between the lower jaw and base of the
skull. Also known as T.M.J.. T.M.J. treatment is sometimes paid under medical.
TERMINAL MESIAL STEP - the position of a vertical plane along the distal
surfaces when the deciduous second molars are in Class I position.
TERMINAL PLANE - the distal surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular
deciduous second molars that are on the same line or plane.
TMD - temporomandibular disorder; a problem with the joint that connects the
lower jaw with the skull. Typically associated with a pop and pain in the joint.
TOPICAL - applied directly to an infected area for treatment.
TRANSVERSE RIDGE - a linear elevation that crosses a surface (usually the
occlusal surface).
TRIANGULAR RIDGE - a linear elevation that forms a triangle.
TRIFURCATION - forked or divided into three parts.
TUBERCLE - a small, rounded projection.
TUBEROSITY - a large, rounded projection.
ULTRASONIC - the conversion of high frequency electrical current into

mechanical vibrations.
VENTRAL - the underside, used when speaking of the tongue; thus the ventral
surface of the tongue is the underside of the tongue.
VERMILION - red.
VIRGIN TEETH - teeth that are free from decay or restorations.
WAIVER OF DEDUCTIBLE - under some policies certain procedures are
excluded from the deductible.
WISDOM TOOTH - the third molar; the eighth tooth from the center of mouth.
XEROSTOMIA - dryness of the mouth.

You might also like