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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

Why Should You See Your Dental Hygienist Regularly?

October is here, and that means it’s October National Dental Hygiene Month! We’re excited to celebrate the amazing dental hygienists who keep our smiles bright and our teeth healthy. They do so much more than clean your teeth – let’s take a closer look at what makes dental hygienists essential members of your dental team.…

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Happy Gum Care Month!

It’s Gum Care Month which means that we’ll be sharing tips and tricks for maintaining your gum health. Your gums are just as important as your teeth so they need the same care and attention! Importance of your gums Your gums protect your teeth and need to remain healthy. Gum issues can directly impact your…

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All About Veneers, Bonding, and Crowns

Interested in getting veneers? Thanks to social media, more people are learning about this cosmetic treatment and their amazing before-and-after transformations. Do they live up to the hype? Are there other alternatives? Read on to learn more! What are veneers? Veneers are a great option to enhance your smile. They are used to correct discoloration…

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