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!
A clear lubricating fluid in the mouth containing water, enzymes, bacteria, mucus, viruses, blood cells and undigested food particles.
A suction tube placed in the mouth to remove saliva.
The glands located under the tongue and in cheeks that produce saliva.
The meticulous removal of plaque and calculus from tooth surfaces.
Thin resin material bonded in the pits and fissures of back teeth for the prevention of decay.
Reparative tooth structure produced by the pulp in response to tooth irritation.
Infammation of the sinus that may mimic dental pain.
The periodic interruption or delay in breathing during sleep.
A dental device that holds the space lost through premature loss of baby teeth.
The connection of two or more teeth so that they function as a stronger single structure.
A straight, healthy smile is more than just your best feature—it may also be your most important. Proper alignment, or occlusion, of your teeth and jaws is critical to the long-term functioning of your teeth, jaws, and mouth, as well as to your overall health. Misaligned teeth and jaws can lead to problems like uneven…
Read MoreIn a study published in the online Journal of Clinical Periodontology, researchers found that COVID patients with gum disease were more likely to suffer serious medical complications, including being: 3.5 times more likely to be admitted to intensive care 4.5 times more likely to need a ventilator Nearly nine times more likely to die compared…
Read MoreIs smoking marijuana ruining your smile? Now that marijuana is legal in many states for recreational or medicinal purposes (or both) we will soon be able to conduct more comprehensive studies on the true oral health effects of cannabis use. What we understand so far about the oral health effects of smoking cannabis is based…
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Orthodontics may be provided by general dentists.
