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Child Friendly Terms
Glossary of Dental Terms
-A-
Abscess - infection caused by tooth decay and/or trauma.
Anesthetic - a drug used to eliminate a patient's discomfort during certain dental procedures (sleepy juice for just one tooth)
Anterior - teeth located in front of the mouth
Aspirator - a suction device that is used during procedures to remove saliva from your mouth. (silly straw - to help remove the water in your mouth)
-B-
Bonding - a plastic composite added to the tooth to correct stains or damage from decay. Also known as filling material used during fillings. (silly putty - a band-aid for the tooth)
Bruxism - the clenching or grinding of teeth, most commonly done while sleeping
-C-
Calculus - the hardened plaque that can form on teeth due to lack of proper brushing and flossing. Also known as tarter.
Caries - another name for cavities or decay on teeth. (cavity bug)
Cavity - a tiny hole in the tooth caused by decay. (cavity bug)
Crown - an artifitial tooth made of porcelain or metal. Used to cover tooth after major damage has occured. (the dentist is going to put a hat on your tooth)
-D-
Decalcification - the loss of calcium from the teeth.
Deciduous Teeth - also called "baby teeth"
-E-
Enamel - the hard surface of the tooth that is visible above the gum line.
Extractions - the removal of a tooth or teeth. (wiggling a tooth out)
-F-
Filling - a material made of composite used to fill a tooth after cavity is removed.
Fluoride - a chemical solution used to harden teeth and prevent decay. Also found in tap water.
-G-
Gingivitis - inflamation of gums around the roots of the teeth due to improper brushing and flossing
Gums - the pink firm flesh that surrounds and supports the teeth. (It is a home for your teeth. It is just as important to brush your gums too)
-I-
Impacted Tooth - often seen with wisdom teeth. A tooth developing sideways below the gum line.
-N-
Night Guard - a plastic mouthpiece worn at night to prevent grinding of the teeth and to prevent TMJ. (TMJ definition - see "T")
-P-
Plaque - a sticky buildup of acids and bacteria that causes tooth decay
Primary Teeth - also known as "baby teeth" or deciduous teeth.
-R-
Root - the portion of the tooth below your gum line.
-S-
Sealant - a plastic coating applied to the back molars to prevent tooth decay. (for more information see Treatment Info)
Secondary Teeth - the permanent teeth.
Six Year Molar - Commonly known as "the first molar"
-T-
Tartar - see calculus
TMJ Syndrome - a disorder associated with the joint of the jaw. Often caused by a misalignment of the upper or lower jaw sizes.
Twelve Year Molar - commonly known as "the second molar"