Glossary of Dental Terms
A handy reference
Common Dental Terms
We’ve put together this handy reference guide of terms you might hear when speaking with your dentist or support staff.
Please don’t hesitate to ask your dental care provider for clarification. We’re here to help make your experience as pleasant as possible!
Biopsy
Removal of a small piece of tissue for microscopic examination.
Bite
Relationship of the upper and lower teeth on closure (occlusion).
Bite Wings
Caries (decay) detection devices used during X-rays.
Black Hairy Tongue
Elongated papillae on the tongue, promoting the growth of microorganisms.
Bleaching
Chemical or laser treatment of natural teeth for whitening effect.
Block Injection
Anesthesia of a nerve trunk that covers a large area of the jaw. A mandibular block injection produces numbness of the lower jaw, teeth and half the tongue.
Bonding
Adhesive dental restoration technique. A tooth-colored composite resin to repair and/or change the color or shape of a tooth.
Bone Resorption
Decrease in bone supporting the roots of teeth, which is a common result of periodontal (gum disease).
Braces
Devices used by orthodontists to gradually reposition teeth to a more favorable alignment.
Bridge
Bridges resemble natural teeth, and are designed to take the place of areas where there are gaps between teeth. bridge is a stationary dental prosthesis (appliance) fixed to teeth adjacent to a space. It replaces one or more missing teeth, cemented or bonded, to supporting teeth or implants adjacent to the space. If you need a crown or bridge youâll be expertly fitted by one of our specialists. No more worrying that the crown or bridge is going to be ill fitting or look unnatural.The world of dentistry is growing by leaps and bounds, and soon crowns and bridges will be much more affordable for anyone who would like to have them. While some are covered by some types of insurance (wholly or partly), it depends on the company and the reason for the crown and/or bridge. Those put in place solely for cosmetic purposes may not always be covered, or may only be covered after a specific deductible has been met. Let us help keep your smile flawless.
Resources
From Wooden Teeth to High-Tech Care: 250 Years of American Dental Innovation
Celebrating a healthy smile is a great way to honor our nation’s 250th birthday. We’ve come a long way since early American dentistry, when many people believed George Washington wore wooden teeth. Today, advanced dental technology makes your office visits comfortable and easy, while smart tools at home help you care for your smile every…
Why Straight Teeth are Healthier
Most people think of straight teeth as just a way to look better in photos. But having a straight smile is actually a big part of your health. When your teeth line up right, it does more than look good. It helps your whole mouth work better and stay cleaner. Easier Cleaning for a Healthier…
Eat the Foods You Love Again with Dental Implants
Missing a tooth is more than just a gap in your smile. It can change how you chew your favorite meals and how you feel when you talk to friends. If you have been hiding your smile or avoiding certain foods, dental implants could be the answer. They are designed to look, feel, and work…
