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!
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!
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!
Calcium
Chemical element needed for healthy teeth, bones and nerves.
Calculus
Hard residue, commonly known as tartar, that forms on teeth due to inadequate plaque control. Calculus teeth often are stained yellow or brown.
Canine teeth
There are two upper and land two ower canine (cuspid) teeth.
Canker Sore
Mouth sore that appears whitish and often has a red halo. A canker sore usually has a 10-14 day duration.
Cantilever Bridge
Fixed bridge that attaches to adjacent teeth only on one end.
Cap
Common term for dental crown.
Caries
Tooth decay or 'cavities.'
Cast or Model
Reproduction of structures made by pouring plaster or stone into a mold.
Cavitron
Dental tool that uses high frequency ultrasonic waves to clean teeth.
Cellulitis
Soft tissue infection causing extensive hard swelling, a potentially dangerous condition requiring immediate attention.
Cementum
Hard tissue that covers the roots of teeth.
Chart
Log of dental or medical records.
Resources

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How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Don’t panic. Dentists fix chipped teeth all the time with fantastic results. Here’s what you need to know about fixing a chipped tooth.

Blog
How to Create Good Oral Health Habits for your Kids?
Even though tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, it’s entirely preventable. How?

Blog
Marijuana and Oral Health: What You Need to Know
Now that marijuana use is becoming more mainstream and is no longer illegal in many states, it’s time to clear up some misconceptions and misinformation about the drug.

Blog
How to Create Good Oral Health Habits for your Kids?
Even though tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, it’s entirely preventable. How?