A localized infection that forms a pocket of pus, typically around the root of a tooth or in the gums. Abscesses are often painful and require prompt treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.

The wearing down of the tooth surface due to mechanical forces, such as aggressive brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush.

A connector used in dental bridges or implants. In implants, it links the metal post to the replacement tooth; in bridges, it’s the natural tooth that supports the restoration.

A drill-free technique that uses a stream of tiny particles to remove decay or prepare a tooth for bonding or sealants.

A handheld tool that delivers a stream of air, water, or a combination of both to rinse and dry the mouth during procedures.

The part of the jawbone that surrounds and holds the roots of the teeth in place.

A durable material made of a mixture of metals (including silver, mercury, tin, and copper) used to fill cavities. Though effective, many modern practices now offer tooth-colored alternatives.

A form of sedation that puts the patient fully asleep, typically used for complex procedures or patients with special needs. It’s administered by a trained professional and requires careful monitoring.

Medication used to numb a specific area of the mouth during dental procedures, allowing for comfort without affecting your overall alertness.

The front teeth—incisors and canines—primarily used for cutting and tearing food. These are the most visible teeth when you smile or speak.

The tip or end of the root of a tooth.

Commonly known as a canker sore, this is a small, painful sore inside the mouth that typically heals on its own within a week or two.

The curved structure formed by the rows of teeth in the upper or lower jaw.

Colored paper used to check how teeth come together when biting. It marks high spots on the teeth so the dentist can make adjustments if needed.

A suction tool that helps keep the mouth dry and clear of saliva during treatments.

Natural wear of the tooth surface caused by tooth-to-tooth contact, such as grinding or normal chewing over time.

A thin, flexible file with tiny barbs, used during root canal treatment to remove soft tissue from inside the tooth.

Refers to the standard group of tools used for most exams and cleanings: a mirror, explorer, and cotton forceps.

Transitional teeth located between the canines and molars, used for both tearing and grinding food.

The removal of a small piece of tissue from the mouth for laboratory analysis, often to check for abnormal or potentially cancerous cells.

A cosmetic procedure that uses whitening agents to lighten the color of the teeth.

A technique where a tooth-colored resin is applied and hardened with a special light to repair or improve the appearance of a tooth.

Orthodontic appliances used to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve alignment over time.

Fixed dental restorations that replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants.

The involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep, which can lead to wear, jaw discomfort, or other complications.

Refers to the surface of a tooth that faces the cheek. Often used when describing the position or treatment of molars and premolars.

A smooth, rounded tool used to polish fillings and smooth the surface of restorations after they’ve been placed.

A hardened form of plaque that builds up on the teeth over time. It can only be removed with professional dental cleaning tools.

The pointed teeth located next to the incisors. Canines help in tearing food and play a role in guiding the bite.

A small, painful ulcer that appears inside the mouth. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and typically heal on their own.

The breakdown of a tooth’s enamel caused by bacteria, leading to cavities. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits help prevent caries.

A hole in the tooth caused by decay. Cavities are treated by removing the decayed portion and filling the area with a dental material.

The hard tissue that covers the tooth root and helps anchor it within the jawbone through the periodontal ligament.

A metal or plastic hook on a removable partial denture that helps anchor it securely to natural teeth.

A routine professional procedure to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth, helping to prevent gum disease and decay.

A tooth-colored material used to fill cavities, repair chipped teeth, or improve cosmetic appearance. It bonds directly to the tooth structure.

A custom-made cap that covers and protects a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns restore shape, strength, and appearance.

A small, curved instrument used by dental professionals to remove tartar and diseased tissue below the gumline.

The layer of tooth beneath the enamel and cementum. Dentin is less hard than enamel and contains microscopic tubules that can transmit sensations to the tooth’s nerve.

The process of removing heavy plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, usually as a preliminary step before a full dental cleaning.

The destruction of tooth structure caused by bacteria, leading to cavities and other damage if untreated.

A titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an anchor for a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture.

Removable appliances used to replace missing teeth. They can be full (replacing all teeth) or partial (replacing several teeth).

A material applied to teeth to help reduce sensitivity caused by exposed dentin or after procedures like whitening or deep cleaning.

A space or gap between two teeth, most commonly seen between the upper front teeth.

Advanced imaging technology that uses electronic sensors instead of traditional film to capture dental X-ray images with lower radiation exposure.

A painful condition that can occur after a tooth extraction if the protective blood clot is lost too early, exposing the underlying bone and nerves.

A thin, flexible sheet used to isolate a specific area of the mouth during procedures like root canals, helping keep it dry and clean.

Describes a person who has lost all of their natural teeth, either in one jaw or both.

The hard, outermost layer of a tooth. Enamel protects the tooth from decay and wear but cannot regenerate once damaged.

A dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating issues related to the dental pulp and root canals.

The branch of dentistry concerned with the tooth’s inner structures, particularly the pulp and root tissues. Root canal therapy falls under this specialty.

The process of a tooth moving through the gums to become visible in the mouth. This occurs both in childhood (baby teeth) and again with permanent teeth.

A routine dental check-up in which the dentist evaluates the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth, often including X-rays and screenings.

The removal of a tooth from its socket, typically due to decay, damage, or crowding.

A material used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. Common types include composite resin (tooth-colored) and amalgam (silver-colored).

A thin strand of material used to clean between teeth and along the gumline where a toothbrush can’t reach. Daily flossing helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

A natural mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Fluoride may be applied during cleanings or found in toothpaste and drinking water.

A cosmetic condition caused by excessive fluoride intake during tooth development, leading to white spots or streaks on the enamel.

A dental instrument used to grasp and extract teeth during surgical procedures.

A minor surgical procedure to remove or modify a frenum, the tissue connecting the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the jaw. Often done to improve speech or reduce spacing issues.

A small fold of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the gum or jawbone. It can affect speech and tooth positioning if too tight or short.

A primary dental care provider who diagnoses, treats, and manages overall oral health needs, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, and preventive care.

The medical term for gums—the soft tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth and covers the jawbone.

The earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. It is usually reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional care.

A surgical procedure to remove excess or diseased gum tissue, often used to treat advanced periodontal disease or to reshape the gumline.

A condition in which the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, exposing the roots and increasing the risk of decay and sensitivity.

A type of dental material used for fillings, especially in areas not under heavy chewing pressure. It releases fluoride to help prevent further decay.

A rubber-like material used to fill the space inside the root of a tooth after a root canal procedure.

Persistent bad breath, which can be caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, certain foods, or underlying health issues.

A dental drill used for procedures such as removing decay, polishing fillings, or preparing teeth for crowns. High-speed and low-speed versions serve different functions.

The bony front portion of the roof of the mouth, separating the oral and nasal cavities.

A licensed dental professional who focuses on preventive care, including cleanings, exams, X-rays, and patient education on oral hygiene.

An active ingredient in many tooth-whitening products. It helps remove surface stains by breaking down into water and oxygen, which lifts stains from enamel.

A tooth that has not fully erupted into the mouth because it is blocked by other teeth, bone, or soft tissue—commonly affects wisdom teeth.

A titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as a foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture.

A mold of the teeth and oral tissues used to create accurate models for crowns, bridges, dentures, or other appliances.

The front four teeth on both the upper and lower jaw. These are flat-edged teeth used for cutting food.

A custom-made filling made in a dental lab that fits into the grooves of a tooth without covering the cusps, often used for larger cavities.

A brand of clear, removable aligners used to straighten teeth as an alternative to traditional metal braces.

The space between two adjacent teeth. This area is commonly cleaned with floss or interdental brushes to prevent decay and gum disease.

A form of conscious sedation administered through a vein to help patients relax during more complex or lengthy dental procedures.

The bone that supports the teeth and shapes the lower face. The upper jaw is called the maxilla, and the lower jaw is the mandible.

The hinge that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull, allowing movement for speaking and chewing. TMJ disorders can cause pain, stiffness, or clicking in the jaw.

A patch of thickened, white tissue in the mouth often caused by chronic irritation. While usually benign, some lesions may require monitoring or a biopsy.

The portion of the gum tissue that is firmly attached and more resistant to mechanical stress, typically surrounding the teeth and extending to the mucosa.

A dense line seen around the tooth socket on dental X-rays, representing healthy bone that supports the teeth.

The use of focused light energy to treat various dental conditions, including gum reshaping, cavity removal, and soft tissue procedures with less discomfort and faster healing.

Refers to the surface of a tooth that faces the tongue. Opposite of buccal or facial surfaces.

Medication injected near a tooth or treatment area to numb sensation during dental procedures while the patient remains fully awake.

A tooth that moves more than normal due to trauma, gum disease, or bone loss. Treatment depends on the cause and severity.

The dislocation or displacement of a tooth from its normal position, usually due to injury. Prompt dental care is necessary to reposition and stabilize the tooth.

Misalignment of the teeth or jaws that affects how the upper and lower teeth fit together. Common types include overbite, underbite, and crossbite.

The lower jawbone. It is the largest and strongest bone of the face and holds the lower teeth in place.

The edge or boundary where a dental restoration (like a crown or filling) meets the natural tooth structure.

The upper jawbone, which holds the upper teeth and forms part of the nose and eye socket structure.

The large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth used for grinding and chewing food. Adults typically have 12 molars, including wisdom teeth.

A protective appliance worn over the teeth to prevent injury during sports or to minimize damage from teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep.

A fluid-filled swelling that appears on the inside of the lip or mouth, usually caused by trauma or blocked salivary glands.

The soft, moist tissue lining the inside of the mouth, cheeks, lips, and throat.

The hollow space behind the nose that connects to the upper part of the throat. It’s anatomically close to the upper jaw and can be affected during certain oral surgeries.

Death of tissue, often referring to the dental pulp inside a tooth. Pulp necrosis usually results from trauma or untreated decay and often requires root canal therapy.

A type of local anesthesia that numbs a specific group of nerves to prevent pain during dental procedures in a larger area of the mouth.

A custom-made appliance worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding or clenching (bruxism) and to reduce strain on the jaw muscles and joints.

The way the upper and lower teeth come together when the mouth is closed. Proper occlusion is important for chewing, speaking, and overall oral health.

A custom-made dental restoration that covers one or more cusps of a tooth. It’s used when damage is too extensive for a filling but doesn’t require a full crown.

A type of malocclusion where the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, often affecting front teeth. It can impact speech and chewing.

A serious condition involving cancerous growths in the mouth, tongue, lips, or throat. Regular dental exams include screenings for early signs.

The practice of keeping the mouth clean and healthy through regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care.

A dental specialist trained to perform complex surgical procedures such as tooth extractions, implant placements, and corrective jaw surgery.

A branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws using braces, aligners, and other appliances.

A condition where the upper front teeth extend significantly over the lower front teeth. It is a common type of malocclusion that may require orthodontic treatment.

The roof of the mouth, divided into the hard palate in the front and the soft palate in the back.

The small, triangular portion of gum tissue between adjacent teeth.

A removable appliance that replaces some missing teeth while being anchored to remaining natural teeth.

A type of dental X-ray that shows the entire tooth, from crown to root, including the surrounding bone structure.

An infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Advanced stages can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

A dental specialist who treats gum disease and performs procedures such as gum grafts and dental implant placement.

The advanced stage of gum disease, involving inflammation, bone loss, and damage to the tissues supporting the teeth.

The second set of teeth that replace baby teeth and are meant to last a lifetime. Most adults have 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.

A small depression or groove on the surface of a tooth, often found on the chewing surfaces of molars. Pits can be prone to decay if not properly cleaned.

A soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed through brushing and flossing, it can lead to cavities and gum disease.

A finishing step in a dental cleaning where a mildly abrasive paste is used to smooth and shine the teeth, helping to remove surface stains.

The artificial tooth that fills the gap in a dental bridge, supported by crowns or implants on either side.

A metal or fiber rod placed inside the root of a tooth after a root canal to help support and retain a crown or other restoration.

A professional dental cleaning that includes scaling and polishing to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains.

The soft inner tissue of a tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Damage or infection to the pulp often requires root canal treatment.

Inflammation of the tooth’s pulp, often caused by decay or trauma. It can result in tooth sensitivity or pain and may require treatment to prevent further damage.

One of the four sections of the mouth: upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. Dentists often refer to quadrants when planning treatment or cleanings.

A component used in some composite resins to enhance strength and durability. Commonly found in tooth-colored restorative materials.

An image produced by X-rays that allows the dentist to see structures inside the mouth that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities, bone loss, and infections.

A condition where the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, exposing more of the root and increasing the risk of decay and sensitivity.

The process of reshaping the underside of a denture to improve its fit against the gums as the mouth changes over time.

The natural process of restoring minerals to tooth enamel that has been weakened by acids. Fluoride and saliva play key roles in this repair process.

A tooth-colored material used in fillings, bonding, and sealants. It bonds well to the natural tooth and is often used for aesthetic restorations.

A custom appliance worn after braces or aligner treatment to maintain teeth in their corrected positions.

The part of the tooth that extends into the jawbone and anchors the tooth in place. It is not normally visible unless there is gum recession.

A procedure to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. The canal is then cleaned, filled, and sealed to prevent further infection.

A deep cleaning procedure that smooths the root surfaces of the teeth below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins.

A natural fluid produced by the salivary glands that helps with digestion, protects teeth from decay, and keeps the mouth moist.

A small suction device used during dental procedures to keep the mouth dry by removing saliva and other fluids.

A cleaning procedure that removes plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from the tooth surfaces, especially below the gumline.

A thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars) to help prevent cavities.

Also known as permanent teeth—these replace the primary (baby) teeth and are intended to last a lifetime.

A surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars to prepare for dental implant placement.

The area in the jawbone that holds the root of a tooth. After a tooth extraction, the socket heals and fills in with bone over time.

The flexible, muscular part at the back of the roof of the mouth. It separates the mouth from the nasal passages and helps with swallowing and speech.

A dental device used in children to keep a space open for a permanent tooth after a primary tooth has been lost prematurely.

Discoloration of the teeth caused by food, drink, smoking, or poor oral hygiene. Stains can be extrinsic (on the surface) or intrinsic (within the tooth).

A stitch used to close a wound or surgical site, often after extractions or other oral surgeries. Sutures may be dissolvable or require removal.

An indication of a possible dental issue, such as pain, swelling, bleeding gums, or sensitivity. Symptoms help guide diagnosis and treatment.

Relating to the entire body. Some oral conditions or infections can have systemic effects, influencing overall health.

Hardened plaque that builds up on teeth and cannot be removed by brushing alone. It requires professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist.

The joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. Disorders of this joint (TMD) can cause pain, clicking, or difficulty moving the jaw.

The last set of molars to erupt, usually in the late teens or early twenties. They are often removed if they cause crowding, pain, or become impacted.

A tool used for cleaning teeth, ideally with soft bristles and used twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for optimal oral health.

Destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria. If untreated, decay can lead to cavities, infection, or tooth loss.

A paste or gel used with a toothbrush to clean and protect teeth. Many formulas include fluoride, whitening agents, or ingredients for sensitivity relief.

A harmless bony growth in the mouth, usually found on the roof (torus palatinus) or the inner side of the lower jaw (torus mandibularis).

Injury to the teeth, gums, or jaw caused by accidents, sports, or other impact. Prompt dental care is often necessary to save or restore the affected area.

A personalized outline developed by a dentist to address a patient’s oral health needs, including recommended procedures, timelines, and costs.

An open sore inside the mouth, often painful and caused by irritation, stress, trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Most heal on their own within a week or two.

A dental instrument that uses high-frequency vibrations and a water spray to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth during professional cleanings.

A tooth that has not yet emerged through the gums. Unerupted teeth may be monitored or extracted, especially if they are impacted.

The small, fleshy extension at the back of the soft palate that hangs above the throat. It plays a role in speech and swallowing.

A thin shell made of porcelain or composite resin that is bonded to the front of a tooth to improve its appearance, shape, or color.

The area between the inside of the lips or cheeks and the teeth and gums. It forms part of the oral cavity and is often examined during dental checkups.

An infection in the mouth caused by viruses such as herpes simplex or coxsackievirus. These can lead to sores, ulcers, or inflammation.

A tooth with living pulp tissue, meaning the nerves and blood supply are intact and functioning normally.

A diagnostic procedure used to determine whether the pulp inside a tooth is still alive, often using temperature, electric current, or pressure stimuli.

A diagnostic model of the teeth made using wax. Dentists use it to plan restorations or visualize expected results for cosmetic or restorative procedures.

An oral hygiene device that uses a stream of pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque between teeth and below the gumline.

A cosmetic procedure to lighten the color of teeth using bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

The third and final set of molars that typically erupt in the late teens or early twenties. They are often removed if they become impacted or cause crowding.

The process by which the mouth repairs itself after surgery, extractions, or injury. Healing time varies based on the procedure and individual health factors.

Also known as dry mouth, this condition occurs when there is a reduced flow of saliva. It can be caused by medications, medical conditions, or aging and may increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

An imaging technique that uses electromagnetic radiation to view the internal structures of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. X-rays help diagnose decay, infections, bone loss, and other issues not visible during a visual exam.

A natural, involuntary response that may occur during dental procedures due to stress, fatigue, or jaw positioning. It can affect access to the back of the mouth during treatment.

A formula sometimes used in pediatric dentistry to calculate medication dosages for children based on age, ensuring safe and appropriate treatment.

A dental material commonly used for temporary fillings, root canal sealers, and as a base under restorations. It has soothing properties and provides a good seal.

A strong, biocompatible ceramic material used in crowns, bridges, and implants. Known for its durability and natural appearance.