× Close
Call 1-844-800-7645 Book Now

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!

Topical Anesthetic

An ointment that produces mild anesthesia when applied to the tissue surface.

Torus

Common bony protuberance on the palate or lower jaw.

Transplant

The process of placing a natural tooth in the empty socket of another tooth.

Trauma

Injury caused by external forces, chemical or temperature extremes, or poor tooth alignment.

Trench Mouth

Gum disease characterized by severe mouth sores and loss of tissue. See definition for ANUG.

Tartar

A common term for dental calculus, a hard deposit that adheres to teeth and produces a rough surface that attracts plaque.

Third-Party Provider

An insurance company, union or government agency that pays all or a part of cost of dental treatment.

TMD (or TMJ Disorder)

Temperomandibular disorder, the term given to the condition characterized by facial pain and restricted ability to open or move the jaw.

TMJ

The temporomandibular joint where the lower jaw attaches to the skull.

Tooth Bud

The early embryonic structure that becomes a tooth.

Resources

Choosing Between Veneers, Bonding, and Crowns

You might have noticed how veneers have been trending on social media with amazing before-and-after transformations. Do they live up to the buzz? They are a great way to enhance your smile but are they the best choice for you? Read our blog to learn more about veneers as well as other treatment alternatives. Veneers…

Read More
Charcuterie Board Ideas That Will Keep You Smiling

Are you excited for the summer? To celebrate the beginning of summer, we have come up with some delicious charcuterie board ideas that you can use for picnics and outdoor gatherings. These ideas will keep your tummy satisfied and your smile healthy! Traditional charcuterie boards often include heavy, processed meats and sugary snacks which can…

Read More
The Mindful Path to a Healthy Smile

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s so easy to forget the connection between our mental well-being and our oral health. As proven by research, our mental state can significantly impact the health of our teeth and gums. This is why practicing mindfulness can not only reduce stress by also help improve our dental…

Read More