Whether you’re a dentist, orthodontist, dental technician, or patient, this Professional Dental Glossary is made for you. It brings together the essential terms of both traditional and digital dentistry to help you improve accuracy, streamline communication, and optimize your workflows.
A collection of pus caused by infection.
Tooth wear caused by mechanical actions like brushing.
A tooth or implant that supports a dental prosthesis.
A plastic material used in dentures.
Bone that holds the tooth sockets.
A silver-colored filling material.
Loss of sensation used in dental procedures.
The tip of the root of a tooth.
Surgical removal of the apex of a tooth root.
Tooth wear from tooth-to-tooth contact.
A premolar tooth with two cusps.
A dental prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth.
The involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep.
A tooth with two cusps (points) located in the posterior part of the mouth.
A surgical procedure to replace or augment bone in the jaw, often for implants.
Referring to the cheek side of a tooth.
A cosmetic procedure to whiten teeth by removing stains or discoloration.
A sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease.
Small metal or ceramic pieces used in orthodontics to attach wires to teeth.
The loss of bone density, often due to periodontal disease or after tooth loss.
Hardened dental plaque (tartar).
A small, painful ulcer in the mouth.
Decay in a tooth.
A layer covering the tooth root.
The visible part of the tooth or a prosthetic cap.
The pointed part on the chewing surface of a tooth.
Scraping of the gum pocket lining.
A 3D imaging technique used to visualize the structure of the jaw and teeth for implant placement.
Tooth-colored filling material.
The destruction of tooth enamel and dentin caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on sugars in the mouth. Often leads to cavities if not treated.
A deep cleaning procedure that removes thick plaque and tartar deposits to allow for proper examination and treatment of the gums and teeth.
The layer beneath enamel that makes up most of the tooth. Softer than enamel and contains microscopic tubules that can transmit pain signals.
Removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Can be full (all teeth) or partial (some teeth).
A natural or pathological space between two teeth, most commonly the upper front teeth. May be cosmetic or cause bite issues.
The process of eliminating most pathogenic microorganisms on surfaces and instruments, crucial for infection control in dentistry.issing teeth.
A painful condition that occurs when a blood clot at the site of a tooth extraction fails to develop or is dislodged, exposing bone and nerves.
A dental professional who cleans teeth, educates patients on oral care, and performs other preventive care.
A thin plastic coating applied to the grooves of the back teeth (molars) to prevent cavities by sealing out food and bacteria.
The process of identifying dental diseases and conditions through exams, X-rays, and patient symptoms. Guides treatment planning.
The hard, mineralized outer layer of the tooth that protects the inner layers from decay and damage. Strongest substance in the human body.
The removal of a tooth from its socket, often due to decay, damage, or infection.
The process of teeth emerging through the gums during development. Primary (baby) teeth erupt in early childhood; permanent teeth replace them.
The surgical removal of tissue, often used in biopsies or removing abnormal growths in the mouth.
The branch of dentistry concerned with tooth extraction, including techniques and healing management.
A sharp-ended dental instrument used to detect cavities, plaque, or irregularities in enamel surfaces.
A condition of having no natural teeth, which may require dentures or implants for oral function restoration.
The application of an acidic gel to roughen the tooth surface, enhancing the bonding strength of fillings or sealants.
A dental specialty focused on treating the tooth pulp and tissues surrounding the root. Commonly associated with root canal therapy.
The removal of a tooth from its socket in the alveolar bone. Indicated in severe decay, infection, or orthodontic planning.
A comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s oral health, including visual inspection, palpation, and diagnostic tests like X-rays.
A restorative material used to repair a tooth damaged by decay, restoring its function and shape. Common types include amalgam and composite.
A natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay. Often added to toothpaste and public water supplies.
A thin filament used to clean between teeth and under the gumline, removing plaque and food particles toothbrushes can’t reach.
A minor surgical procedure to remove or alter the frenulum (a small fold of tissue) that may restrict tongue or lip movement.
The area where the roots of a multi-rooted tooth meet. Can become exposed in advanced gum disease.
Natural grooves or crevices on the biting surfaces of molars and premolars, prone to decay if deep.
Refers to the tooth surface facing the cheeks or lips; includes both buccal and labial surfaces.
An abnormal channel or passageway that drains pus from an infection, typically from a dental abscess to the surface of the gums.
A comprehensive set of dental radiographs that show all the teeth and surrounding bone structures, used for thorough evaluation.
A crack or break in a tooth or bone. Tooth fractures can range from minor chips to severe breaks requiring crowns or extractions.
The soft tissue, commonly called gums, that surrounds the teeth and covers the jawbone. Plays a protective role in oral health.
A mild form of gum disease characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, usually caused by plaque buildup.
A rubber-like material used to fill root canals after the removal of the pulp tissue, sealing the space and preventing reinfection.
A surgical procedure to remove excess or diseased gum tissue, often used to treat gum overgrowth or improve aesthetics.
Also known as bruxism, the involuntary clenching or gnashing of teeth, often during sleep. Can lead to tooth wear and jaw issues.
An automatic reaction to prevent choking, triggered when something touches the back of the throat. Can be problematic in dental procedures.
A medically induced state of unconsciousness used in extensive dental surgeries or for patients with severe dental anxiety.
A tooth-colored dental filling material that bonds chemically to tooth structure and releases fluoride over time.
Bad breath caused by bacteria in the mouth, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, or underlying health conditions.
Refers to the mineralized structures of the body, such as teeth and bone, as opposed to soft tissues like gums.
Actions like thumb sucking or nail biting that can affect oral health, often leading to misalignment or damage to teeth and gums.
A surgical procedure that involves removing one of the two roots of a multi-rooted tooth, often in cases of severe damage or disease.
The practice of keeping the mouth, teeth, and gums clean to prevent dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and infections.
A dental tool used to drill and remove tooth structure quickly, often during procedures like cavity preparation.
A licensed dental professional who focuses on preventative dental care, including cleaning teeth, examining oral health, and providing education.
A naturally occurring mineral form of calcium apatite, which is a major component of tooth enamel and bone.
A type of bone resorption around the tooth, characterized by the loss of bone in a parallel direction, often caused by periodontal disease.
Excessive bleeding, which can occur during dental extractions or surgeries.
A titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root, serving as an anchor for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
The front teeth designed for cutting food, typically the four upper and four lower teeth.
A type of filling that is made in a dental lab and then cemented into a cavity, usually made from porcelain, gold, or composite material.
The process of flushing out a wound or dental area with liquid, commonly used in root canal treatment to remove debris and bacteria.
Molds of the teeth and gums taken to create crowns, bridges, dentures, and other restorations.
A tooth that fails to emerge fully through the gum line, often due to space constraints or misalignment.
Condition in which the tooth’s pulp (nerve) is damaged or non-responsive, often due to decay, trauma, or an infection.
Referring to the space between two adjacent teeth. Cleaning between teeth using floss addresses interproximal areas.
A natural response of the body to infection or injury, leading to redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Chronic inflammation can lead to gum disease.
Describes a condition with an unknown cause, often used in dentistry to describe certain types of tooth or gum diseases.
Also called the mandibular bone (lower) or maxillary bone (upper); the bone that holds the teeth in place.
The specialized tissue that forms a seal around the tooth, helping to keep bacteria and pathogens from entering the periodontal ligament.
The involuntary act of pressing the upper and lower teeth together with force, often a result of stress or anxiety, leading to tooth wear or TMJ disorders.
Surgical procedures used to correct abnormalities in the jaw, often used in conjunction with orthodontics for proper alignment.
The upper and lower bones of the mouth, responsible for the support of teeth and chewing movements.
Tough, protective tissue that forms part of the gums and oral mucosa, helping to withstand mechanical forces and trauma.
An abnormal, raised scar that forms after tissue injury, which may occasionally occur after dental surgeries or oral wounds.
The unit of measurement for the voltage used in dental X-rays to produce high-quality images of teeth and bones.
The thin layer of bone that lines the tooth socket, visible on X-rays and a sign of healthy bone around teeth.
An abnormal change in tissue that can result from disease, trauma, or infection. Common oral lesions include ulcers and abscesses.
Referring to the surface of the teeth closest to the tongue, opposite of the buccal (cheek) surface.
Refers to the sides or outer areas of the dental arch or mouth, typically when discussing tooth placement or alignment.
Displacement or dislocation of a tooth due to trauma, often resulting in immediate dental care needs.
A condition where the teeth or jaws are misaligned, leading to bite problems such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
The lower jawbone, which holds the lower teeth in place and supports the structure of the face.
The upper jawbone, which supports the upper teeth and is part of the facial skeleton.
The large, flat teeth located at the back of the mouth, used for grinding food during chewing.
A device worn over teeth to protect against injury, commonly used in sports or for preventing teeth grinding (bruxism).
The sensitive tissue inside the tooth pulp that transmits pain signals. Damage or inflammation can lead to tooth pain or sensitivity.
A sedative gas commonly used in dental procedures to reduce anxiety and pain, also known as laughing gas.
A custom-made dental appliance worn during sleep to prevent tooth grinding (bruxism) and protect teeth from damage.
A tooth that no longer has living pulp tissue, often requiring a root canal or extraction.
A device used to deliver oxygen during dental procedures requiring general anesthesia or sedation.
The death of tissue, often used in dentistry to describe the death of pulp tissue in a tooth.
An abnormal growth of tissue that may be benign or malignant, sometimes detected during dental exams.
Stitches used during oral surgery that do not dissolve on their own and must be removed after a certain period.
A condition where the root canal becomes constricted due to infection, trauma, or natural anomalies.
A blockage or narrowing of the nasal passages that can affect breathing, sometimes influencing dental treatment for sedation.
The way the upper and lower teeth meet when the mouth is closed. Improper occlusion can lead to bite issues or jaw problems.
The practice of keeping the mouth clean to prevent dental diseases such as cavities and gum disease. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
The branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating misaligned teeth and jaws, often through braces or other corrective devices.
A dental restoration made to fit over a tooth, covering a large portion of the chewing surface to restore its shape and function.
A type of malocclusion where the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively.
The horizontal distance between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed, often leading to bite misalignment.
A dental treatment that uses ozone gas to kill bacteria and promote healing in infections or root canals.
The study of diseases that affect the mouth, teeth, gums, and jaws, often diagnosed through biopsies and other tests.
The use of sedative medications to calm patients before and during dental procedures, reducing anxiety and discomfort.
A sticky, colorless film of bacteria and food particles that forms on teeth. If not removed, it can lead to cavities and gum disease.
The soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If infected, it may require a root canal.
The branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
A preventive dental cleaning procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and stains to maintain oral health and prevent disease.
Care provided to relieve symptoms and improve comfort rather than to cure an illness. Used in endodontic procedures like root canals to alleviate pain.
The roof of the mouth, divided into the hard and soft palates, which separates the oral cavity from the nasal cavity.
The teeth located between the canine and molar teeth, typically having two or more cusps and used for grinding food.
Care and instructions provided after a dental procedure to aid in healing and recovery.
A temporary crown placed after tooth preparation, often used before a permanent crown is made.
Methods used to prevent plaque buildup on teeth, including proper brushing, flossing, and the use of anti-plaque products.
One of the four sections of the mouth, divided into upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right sections for dental purposes.
Refers to measuring the amount of something, such as the level of plaque or bacteria, in the dental field.
A period of inactivity or dormancy, often used in the context of a dental infection that is not currently active but may recur.
The process of repairing or replacing damaged or decayed teeth with fillings, crowns, bridges, or implants to restore function and appearance.
A treatment to repair and save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed by removing the infected pulp and sealing the space.
An X-ray image used in dentistry to diagnose oral health issues such as cavities, infections, and bone loss.
The ability of a dental restoration or prosthesis to remain securely in place, often referring to crowns, fillings, or dentures.
The ability of a dental restoration or prosthesis to remain securely in place, often referring to crowns, fillings, or dentures.
A tooth-colored material used in composite fillings, bonding, and veneers to restore or enhance the appearance of teeth.
A deep cleaning procedure used to remove tartar and plaque below the gumline, typically used in the treatment of gum disease.
The use of X-rays in dentistry to create images of the teeth, gums, and bone, helping with diagnoses and treatment planning.
The process in which the gum tissue around a tooth wears away, often leading to tooth sensitivity and increased risk of decay.
The field of dentistry concerned with restoring damaged or missing teeth through procedures like fillings, crowns, and bridges.
A thin sheet of latex or non-latex material placed around a tooth to isolate it during procedures like fillings, root canals, or bleaching.
A dental cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, often performed during periodontal therapy.
A thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities, especially in children and adolescents.
The discoloration of teeth, often caused by food, drink, or smoking. Professional whitening or cleaning can address many types of stains.
A dental procedure in which an implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root.
A surgical procedure that raises the sinus floor to allow for the placement of dental implants in the upper jaw.
A deep cleaning technique used to treat gum disease, involving the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
Extra teeth that develop in addition to the normal number of teeth, which may require extraction if they cause issues.
A stitch used to close a wound or incision following dental surgery or procedures like extractions or implants.
Pain or discomfort experienced when teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, often caused by enamel loss or gum recession.
Small devices placed between teeth to create space before the placement of orthodontic appliances like braces.
Also known as calculus, a hard, calcified deposit of plaque that forms on teeth and gums, often leading to gum disease if not removed.
The breakdown of tooth enamel caused by acids produced by bacteria that feed on sugars in the mouth. Also referred to as cavities or caries.
A condition where teeth experience pain or discomfort when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, often due to gum recession or enamel erosion.
A short-term crown placed over a tooth while a permanent crown is being made, used to protect the tooth until the final restoration is ready.
A cosmetic dental procedure used to lighten the color of the teeth by removing stains or using bleaching agents.
The removal of a tooth from the mouth, often due to severe decay, infection, or as part of orthodontic treatment.
The joint connecting the jaw to the skull, responsible for allowing jaw movement. Disorders in this joint can cause pain, clicking, or difficulty chewing.
A condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing pain, jaw dysfunction, and sometimes headaches or earaches.
Also known as the wisdom tooth, the third molars are the last set of teeth in the mouth, typically erupting in late adolescence or early adulthood.
A diagnostic technique where light is passed through a tooth to detect cracks, decay, or cavities that are not visible to the naked eye.
A sore that can develop inside the mouth, often due to irritation, stress, or infection. Commonly referred to as canker sores.
A tooth that has failed to emerge through the gumline at the appropriate time, often requiring dental intervention.
Refers to one side of the mouth or jaw, used in the context of procedures or conditions that affect only one side.
Also known as the maxilla, the upper jaw holds the upper teeth and plays a crucial role in facial structure and tooth alignment.
A type of malocclusion where the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth when the mouth is closed, often requiring orthodontic treatment.
A thin layer of tooth-colored material (often porcelain) applied to the front of a tooth to improve its appearance or protect the surface.
A diagnostic procedure to determine if the pulp inside a tooth is alive or dead. Often used when assessing a tooth with suspected nerve damage.
A diagnostic or planning model made of wax, used to simulate the shape and position of crowns, bridges, or other restorations before final fabrication. Essential in aesthetic and functional planning.
A cosmetic procedure to lighten teeth, often using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to remove stains and improve appearance. May be done in-office or at home.
The gradual loss of tooth structure due to mechanical actions like grinding (bruxism), improper bite, or abrasive habits. Can lead to sensitivity and functional issues.
The internal tubing system delivering water to dental instruments. Must be regularly disinfected to prevent microbial contamination and biofilm buildup.
A rotary tool, often abrasive, used to smooth and polish the surfaces of dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, and composite fillings.
A small device, usually made of wood or plastic, inserted between teeth to secure a matrix band and ensure proper contour and contact when restoring cavities.
A high-pitched sound sometimes produced by poorly fitting dental appliances or braces, especially noticeable when the patient speaks or chews.
A process of fusing metal parts, commonly used in the fabrication or repair of dental prostheses and orthodontic appliances.
Early indicator of dental caries, appearing as chalky white areas on enamel due to mineral loss. If treated early, progression to cavities can be prevented.
A condition where the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva, leading to difficulty swallowing, speaking, or maintaining oral health.
An imaging technique using X-rays to visualize the teeth, bones, and surrounding tissues, crucial for diagnosing cavities, infections, and abnormalities.
A natural sugar substitute used in dental products like chewing gum and toothpaste that helps prevent tooth decay by reducing plaque-forming bacteria.
A bone graft derived from animal tissue, commonly used to restore bone volume in the jaw before placing a dental implant.
The transfer of biological tissues between species, occasionally used for gingival or bone grafts in complex dental treatments.
A dental implant made from animal-derived materials, used to replace lost bone tissue before traditional implant placement.
A chemical solvent used in dentistry to clean equipment or disinfect surfaces, often found in instrument cleaning solutions.
Protective measures and equipment designed to shield patients and dental staff from ionizing radiation during X-ray procedures.
Management of dry mouth using saliva substitutes, medications, or dietary changes to stimulate or mimic natural saliva production.
Animal-derived grafting materials used in bone regeneration to prepare the jaw for implants in cases of bone loss.
Tooth discoloration caused by food, drinks, or tobacco use; may require professional cleaning or whitening treatment.
A measure of how much stress a dental material can withstand before permanently deforming, critical in restorative dentistry.
A type of zirconia reinforced with yttrium oxide, offering excellent durability and biocompatibility for crowns and bridges.
A dental laser (Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet) used for procedures like caries detection, gum disinfection, and minor surgical interventions.
A specific dental implant design shaped like the letter Y, used in cases with limited bone structure or complex implant placement.
A buildup of soft, yellow-colored dental plaque caused by food residues, which can lead to cavities if not removed.
A metal clip used in orthodontics to hold appliances in place or temporarily stabilize structures during treatment.
An area of the dental arch where one or more teeth are missing; crucial in treatment planning for dentures, bridges, or implants.
A strong, biocompatible ceramic material widely used in fixed prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, and implant frameworks.
The most apical point of the gingival margin on each tooth, essential in cosmetic dentistry for balanced gum lines during a smile.
A designed part of a dental prosthesis that ensures it stays attached securely to teeth or tissues. Affects stability and comfort.
Areas of the dental arch under chewing pressure; must be carefully restored to withstand forces and ensure long-term success.
The interface between the attached gingiva and movable oral mucosa; important for periodontal evaluations and surgical planning.
The cheekbone, which can serve as an anchor for zygomatic implants in cases of severe upper jawbone loss.
The strategic placement of implants based on anatomical and functional demands to ensure balanced load distribution.
A full-contour zirconia restoration made from a single block without veneering, ideal for high-stress areas due to its strength.
A newer type of zirconia that closely mimics the translucency of natural enamel, preferred for esthetic zones like front teeth.
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