Dental glossary

A

Abutment tooth: An abutment tooth is a natural tooth, or an implant, that supports one end of a dental bridge or a partial denture.
Acrylic: Acrylic is a hard, lightweight plastic that dental labs shape into denture bases, denture teeth, night guards, and temporary crowns.
Aligner attachments: Aligner attachments are small tooth-colored bumps bonded to teeth that give clear aligners something to grip so they can move teeth more precisely.
All-on-4 (full-arch implants): All-on-4 is a name for a plan that supports a full arch of replacement teeth on four dental implants, with the back implants set at an angle.
Alternate benefit clause: An alternate benefit clause lets a plan pay based on the least expensive effective treatment. You can still choose another treatment and pay the difference.
Alveolar bone: Alveolar bone is the part of the jawbone that surrounds and supports the roots of your teeth. It holds each tooth in its socket.
Anatomical crown: The anatomical crown is the part of a tooth that is covered by enamel. It is the part you normally see above the gum.
Annual maximum: An annual maximum is the most a dental plan will pay toward your care in one plan year. After that, you pay the rest of the covered costs yourself.
Apicoectomy: An apicoectomy is a small surgery to remove the tip of a tooth root and clean out infection. It is done when a root canal alone has not solved the problem.
Articaine: Articaine is a local anesthetic that dentists inject to numb teeth and gums before treatment. It is often paired with epinephrine, a drug that narrows blood vessels.
Assignment of benefits: Assignment of benefits is your written permission for your dental plan to pay the dentist directly instead of paying you.
Avulsed tooth (knocked-out tooth): An avulsed tooth is a tooth knocked completely out of its socket. It is a dental emergency, and acting quickly raises the chance that it can be saved.

B

Bad breath (halitosis): Bad breath, or halitosis, is an unpleasant odor from the mouth. It has many causes, and most trace back to bacteria in the mouth.
Balance billing: Balance billing is when a provider bills you for the gap between the provider's charge and the amount your plan allows.
Barrier membrane: A barrier membrane is a thin sheet placed over a bone graft or gum defect to keep soft tissue out and give new bone room to grow.
Basic services benefit: A basic services benefit is the plan tier for common repairs, such as fillings, extractions and root canals. Plans usually pay a smaller share than for preventive care.
Biofilm: Biofilm is a layer of bacteria that sticks together on a surface. In the mouth, dental plaque is a biofilm that can cause cavities and gum disease.
Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue, such as from a sore or patch in the mouth, so a lab can examine it under a microscope.
Bitewing X-ray: A bitewing X-ray shows the upper and lower back teeth together from the crown to the bone level. Dentists use it mostly to look for cavities between teeth.
Bleeding on probing: Bleeding on probing means a gum bleeds when a dentist or hygienist gently touches the pocket with a probe, which is a sign of gum inflammation.
Blood clot (socket clot): A socket clot is the blood clot that forms in the hole left by an extracted tooth. It protects the bone and nerves while the site recovers.
Bonding agent: A bonding agent is a thin liquid adhesive that helps tooth-colored fillings and other restorations stick firmly to enamel and dentin.
Bone density: Bone density is a measure of how much mineral and solid bone is packed into a given area, and in the jaw it affects how well implants can anchor.
Bone graft material: Bone graft material is the substance placed in the jaw to help your body grow new bone, and it can come from a donor, an animal, a lab, or your own body.
Bone grafting: Bone grafting is a minor surgery that adds bone or bone-like material to the jaw to rebuild lost bone, often before placing a dental implant.
Bone loss: Bone loss is the shrinking of the jawbone that supports the teeth, which can happen with gum disease, after a tooth is lost, or with other conditions.
Braces: Braces are brackets bonded to the teeth and joined by a wire that is tightened over time to move teeth and correct a poor bite.
Broken crown: A broken crown is a dental crown that has cracked, chipped or come off the tooth underneath. It needs a dentist's attention soon.
Brushing technique: Brushing technique is how you move a toothbrush to clean all tooth surfaces. The ADA advises a soft brush, two minutes, twice a day, at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
Bruxism (teeth grinding): Bruxism is clenching, grinding or gnashing your teeth. It can happen while you are awake or asleep, and many people do not know they do it.
Burning mouth syndrome: Burning mouth syndrome is a painful burning, scalding or tingling feeling in the mouth that lasts for months or longer, often without a visible cause.

C

CAD/CAM dentistry: CAD/CAM dentistry uses computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing to design and make dental pieces, such as crowns, from a digital scan.
Canine (cuspid): Canines, also called cuspids, are the pointed teeth next to your incisors. They tear into foods such as meat and crunchy vegetables.
Canker sore: A canker sore is a painful white or yellow sore that forms inside the mouth, on the cheeks, lips or tongue. It is not the same as a cold sore.
Cantilever bridge: A cantilever bridge holds a false tooth by attaching it to a natural tooth on only one side of the gap.
Caries detection: Caries detection is how dentists find tooth decay. They look at the teeth, feel them with a probe when needed, and use X-rays to see between teeth.
Cavity (dental caries): A cavity, also called dental caries, is a small hole in a tooth caused by decay. It starts when acid from bacteria breaks down the enamel.
CBCT (cone beam CT): CBCT is a dental scan that uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to build a three-dimensional image of the teeth, jaws and nearby structures.
CDT dental code: A CDT code is a standard code from the ADA that names a dental procedure. Offices use it on claims and treatment plans.
Cementum: Cementum is the thin, hard tissue that covers the root of a tooth. It gives the fibers of the periodontal ligament a place to attach.
Chipped tooth: A chipped tooth has lost a small piece of its hard outer layer, the enamel. A hard bite or an injury can cause it.
Chlorhexidine rinse: A chlorhexidine rinse is a prescription mouthwash that kills germs and is used for a short time to treat gum inflammation.
Clear aligners: Clear aligners are a series of removable, see-through plastic trays, each shaped a little differently, that move teeth into new positions step by step.
Coinsurance: Coinsurance is your share of a covered dental bill, shown as a percentage. The plan pays the rest, usually after you pay your deductible.
Community water fluoridation: Community water fluoridation is adjusting the fluoride in public drinking water to a level that helps prevent tooth decay. The U.S. recommended level is 0.7 milligrams per liter.
Complete denture (full denture): A complete denture, or full denture, is a removable set of replacement teeth that replaces all of the teeth in the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both.
Composite resin: Composite resin is a tooth-colored mix of plastic and fine glass particles that dentists use to fill cavities, repair chips, and reshape teeth.
Coordination of benefits: Coordination of benefits decides which plan pays first when you have two or more plans covering the same dental claim.
Copay: A copay is a fixed dollar amount you pay for a covered dental visit or service, set by your plan, no matter what the dentist charges.
Cosmetic dentist: Cosmetic dentist is a common phrase for a dentist who does appearance-focused care. Cosmetic dentistry is not one of the dental specialties the ADA recognizes.
Cracked tooth syndrome: Cracked tooth syndrome describes a small break in a tooth that can cause sharp pain when you bite or when the tooth meets cold. The crack may be hard to see.
Crossbite: A crossbite is when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed, instead of outside them.
Crowded teeth: Crowded teeth means there is not enough room in the jaw for all the teeth. They may overlap, twist or sit crooked.
Crown lengthening: Crown lengthening is a procedure that exposes more of a tooth by removing gum tissue and sometimes bone. It helps a dentist repair a tooth that is too short or broken below the gumline.
Cusp: A cusp is a raised point or rounded bump on the chewing surface of a tooth. Cusps help grip and grind food.

D

DDS and DMD: DDS means Doctor of Dental Surgery and DMD means Doctor of Dental Medicine. They are the same degree and use the same curriculum.
Deductible: A deductible is the amount you pay for covered dental care each plan year before your insurance starts to pay its share.
Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection in or around a tooth. It can cause pain, swelling and a bad taste.
Dental amalgam (silver filling): Dental amalgam is a silver-colored filling material made by mixing liquid mercury with a powder of silver, tin, and copper, used to fill cavities.
Dental anxiety: Dental anxiety is fear or worry about going to the dentist or having dental treatment. It is common, and it can lead people to put off care.
Dental assistant: A dental assistant supports the dentist during treatment by preparing the room, handing instruments and helping the patient stay comfortable.
Dental bonding: Dental bonding applies a tooth-colored resin to a tooth to change its shape, size or color or to repair small flaws.
Dental bridge: A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth that are anchored to the teeth or implants on either side of the gap.
Dental cement: Dental cement is the glue-like material a dentist uses to hold a crown, bridge, or similar restoration onto a prepared tooth.
Dental cleaning (prophylaxis): A dental cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist that removes plaque, tartar and stains from the teeth.
Dental crown: A dental crown is a cap that fits over a whole tooth. It restores a tooth's shape and strength and protects it.
Dental emergency: A dental emergency is an injury or problem in the mouth that needs fast care, such as a knocked-out tooth, a badly cracked tooth, or an abscess.
Dental exam: A dental exam is a checkup of your teeth, gums and mouth by a dentist and often a dental hygienist. It helps find problems early.
Dental filling: A dental filling is a material placed in a tooth to repair a cavity or damage. It replaces the lost part and restores the tooth's shape.
Dental financing: Dental financing is a way to pay for dental care over time, often through a payment plan or a credit card for health costs.
Dental flipper: A dental flipper is a light, removable plastic tooth or set of teeth that fills a gap for a short time, often while a longer-term option is made.
Dental fluorosis: Dental fluorosis is a change in how enamel looks, usually faint white lines or streaks, caused by too much fluoride while teeth are forming.
Dental home: A dental home is the ongoing relationship between a patient and a dental office that provides regular, complete, and coordinated oral health care.
Dental hygienist: A dental hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who cleans teeth, takes X-rays, and teaches patients how to care for their teeth and gums.
Dental implant: A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone to act as an anchor for a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture.
Dental insurance: Dental insurance is a plan that helps pay for dental care. You or your employer pay a premium, and the plan pays part of covered services under its rules.
Dental membership plan: A dental membership plan is an in-office savings plan, not insurance. You pay a yearly fee and get set services or discounts from that office.
Dental phobia: Dental phobia, also called dentophobia, is an intense fear of the dentist. It goes beyond ordinary nerves and can keep a person from seeking care.
Dental plaque: Dental plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth all day long. If it stays, it can cause cavities and gum disease.
Dental sealant: A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating painted on the chewing surface of a back tooth. It seals the grooves to keep out food and bacteria.
Dental trauma: Dental trauma is any injury to the teeth, gums, jawbone or soft tissues of the mouth. It includes chipped, cracked, loosened and knocked-out teeth.
Dental veneers: Dental veneers are thin shells, usually porcelain or composite, that cover the front of a tooth to change its color, shape or size.
Dentin: Dentin is the layer of a tooth that sits under the enamel and cementum. It makes up most of the tooth and contains tiny tubes that lead toward the nerve.
Denture adhesive: Denture adhesive is a cream, powder, or pad that helps hold a denture in place, but it does not replace a well-fitting denture.
Denture rebase: A denture rebase replaces the entire pink base of a denture with new material while keeping the same teeth and the same shape of the denture.
Denture reline: A denture reline adds new material to the inside surface of a denture so it fits the gums better after the mouth changes shape over time.
Denture repair: Denture repair is the fixing of a cracked, chipped, or broken denture, or the replacement of a loose or missing denture tooth.
DHMO (dental HMO): A DHMO is a dental HMO plan. You pick a network dentist who manages your care, and the plan pays that dentist a set monthly amount.
Diastema (tooth gap): A diastema is a gap between two teeth. Gaps can occur anywhere in the mouth, but they are most common between the two upper front teeth.
Digital impression: A digital impression is a 3D computer model of your teeth and gums made with a scanner. It does the job of a traditional impression made with putty or paste.
Digital smile design: Digital smile design is a planning method that uses photos, scans and software to show a patient a digital mockup of a new smile before treatment starts.
Digital X-ray: A digital X-ray records a dental image with an electronic sensor instead of film. The image appears on a computer screen, and many dentists use this method.
Dry mouth (xerostomia): Dry mouth, or xerostomia, means you do not have enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. It can make chewing, swallowing and talking hard.
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis): Dry socket is a painful problem that can happen after a tooth is pulled. The blood clot in the socket is lost too early, leaving bone and nerves exposed.

E

Early childhood caries: Early childhood caries is tooth decay in babies and toddlers. It is sometimes called baby bottle tooth decay, and it often starts in the front teeth.
Edentulism (toothlessness): Edentulism means having no natural teeth. It can be complete or partial, and it affects chewing, speaking and how the face looks.
Electric toothbrush: An electric toothbrush has a motor that moves the bristles for you. The ADA says powered and manual brushes both clean well when used properly.
Enamel: Enamel is the hard, mineral-rich outer layer of the crown of a tooth. It covers the dentin underneath and protects the tooth from daily chewing, heat, cold and acids.
Enamel contouring: Enamel contouring, or enameloplasty, removes a tiny amount of enamel to smooth or reshape a tooth. It can fix minor flaws.
Enamel erosion: Enamel erosion is the loss of tooth enamel from acid rather than from bacteria or biting. Once enamel is gone, the body cannot make more.
Endodontist: An endodontist is a dentist with extra training in the dental pulp and the tissues around the root tip. Endodontics is the recognized dental specialty that treats them.
Epinephrine in dental anesthetic: Epinephrine is a drug added to many dental numbing solutions. It narrows blood vessels near the injection site, a step used together with the anesthetic.
Explanation of benefits (EOB): An explanation of benefits (EOB) is a statement from your plan showing what it paid for a dental claim and what you may owe. It is not a bill.
Exposed tooth nerve: An exposed tooth nerve means the pulp inside the tooth is open to the mouth, often from deep decay or a crack. It can hurt and lead to infection.

F

Facial swelling from a tooth: Facial swelling from a tooth is swelling of the face or jaw caused by a tooth infection. Spreading swelling or trouble breathing needs 911.
Fee schedule: A fee schedule is a list of the amounts a dental plan allows or pays for each service. It may differ from what a dentist usually charges.
Flexible spending account (FSA): A flexible spending account (FSA) is an employer-run account that lets you pay for many medical and dental costs with pre-tax money.
Flossing: Flossing is cleaning between your teeth with a thin strand of floss to remove plaque and food. The ADA recommends doing it once a day.
Fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste contains fluoride, a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps fight tooth decay. The ADA recommends brushing with it twice a day.
Fluoride treatment: A fluoride treatment is fluoride applied to the teeth at the dental office, usually as a varnish, gel or foam. It helps teeth resist decay.
Fluoride varnish: Fluoride varnish is a sticky, concentrated fluoride coating that a dentist or hygienist paints onto teeth to help strengthen enamel and guard against cavities.
Fractured tooth: A fractured tooth is a tooth with a crack or break. The break can be small and cause no trouble, or deep enough to split the tooth.
Frenectomy: A frenectomy is a small procedure that cuts or removes a frenum, the band of tissue under the tongue or between the lip and gum, when it limits movement.
Frenum (frenulum): A frenum, or frenulum, is a thin band of tissue that connects two body parts. In the mouth, one joins lip to gum and another joins tongue to floor.
Frequency limit: A frequency limit is a plan rule on how often it will pay for a service, such as two cleanings a year or one set of bitewing X-rays every 12 months.
Full mouth rehabilitation: Full mouth rehabilitation is a plan to repair or replace many teeth, in both jaws, so the mouth works and looks better as a whole. It can combine several restorative treatments.

G

Gauze pressure: Gauze pressure means biting down on clean gauze to press on an extraction site. It helps stop bleeding and lets a blood clot form.
General anesthesia: General anesthesia is a medically controlled state of deep unconsciousness in which you are fully asleep and cannot feel or respond to anything.
General dentist: A general dentist provides a full range of dental care, from exams and cleanings to fillings, crowns and extractions, and refers patients for care outside that range.
Gingivectomy: A gingivectomy is the surgical removal of gum tissue. It is used for some forms of gum disease and for reshaping the gums.
Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. The gums become red, swollen and may bleed, but the bone that holds the teeth is not yet damaged.
Glass ionomer: Glass ionomer is a tooth-colored dental material that bonds to tooth structure and releases fluoride, used for some fillings, liners, and cements.
Gold alloy: A gold alloy is a blend of gold with metals such as copper and platinum that dentists have long used for inlays, onlays, and crowns.
Guided implant surgery: Guided implant surgery uses a 3D scan and a custom template to steer the placement of a dental implant to a planned position and angle.
Gum contouring: Gum contouring removes extra gum tissue and reshapes the gumline. It is used for uneven gums or a smile that shows a lot of gum.
Gum disease (periodontal disease): Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth, caused by plaque bacteria.
Gum graft: A gum graft is surgery that adds gum tissue to an area where the gum has pulled back. It covers exposed roots and adds thickness to the gumline.
Gum inflammation: Gum inflammation is redness, swelling, and tenderness of the gums, most often caused by plaque left along the gum line.
Gum recession: Gum recession is when gum tissue pulls back from the teeth and exposes the roots. It can make teeth sensitive and more open to decay.
Gums (gingiva): The gums, or gingiva, are the soft pink tissue that covers the jawbone and surrounds the necks of your teeth. They protect the roots and the bone below.
Gutta-percha: Gutta-percha is a rubber-like material made from tree sap that dentists use to fill and seal the inside of a tooth after a root canal.

H

Healing abutment: A healing abutment is a short cap screwed onto a dental implant while the gum heals, which shapes the gum so the final tooth fits well.
Health savings account (HSA): A health savings account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account for medical costs. You can open one only with an HSA-eligible health plan.

I

Immediate denture: An immediate denture is a removable denture that is put in the mouth on the same day the remaining teeth are taken out.
Immediate implant: An immediate implant is a dental implant placed in the socket on the same day a damaged tooth is removed, instead of after the socket heals.
Impacted tooth: An impacted tooth is a tooth that does not come in normally. It stays stuck under the gum or in the bone, or only partly comes through.
Impacted wisdom tooth: An impacted wisdom tooth is a third molar trapped in the jawbone or under the gum. It cannot come in fully, which can cause pain or infection.
Implant abutment: An implant abutment is the small connector piece that screws onto a dental implant post and holds the crown, bridge, or denture above the gum.
Implant crown: An implant crown is a tooth-shaped cap made to attach to a dental implant, and it replaces the part of the tooth you can see.
Implant failure: Implant failure means a dental implant is lost or has to be removed because it did not bond to the bone or because it later came loose.
Implant-supported denture: An implant-supported denture is a removable or fixed set of replacement teeth that is held in place by dental implants instead of resting only on the gums.
In-network dentist: An in-network dentist has a contract with your dental plan and accepts the plan's set fees. Seeing one usually costs you less than going outside the network.
Incisor: Incisors are the flat, thin front teeth. You have four on top and four on the bottom, and they cut food when you bite.
Indemnity dental plan: An indemnity dental plan is a traditional plan with no network. You can pick any dentist, and the plan pays a percentage of the charges.
Inferior alveolar nerve: The inferior alveolar nerve runs through the lower jaw. It carries feeling from the lower teeth, the lower lip and the chin.
Inlay: An inlay is a custom-made filling that sits within the chewing surface of a tooth, between the cusps. A lab or milling machine makes it outside the mouth.
Insurance claim: An insurance claim is a request for payment sent to your dental plan, listing the services you received, the dates, and the charges.
Interceptive orthodontics: Interceptive orthodontics is early, limited treatment in childhood that guides jaw and tooth growth to ease or prevent bigger bite problems later.
Interdental brush: An interdental brush is a tiny brush on a small handle that cleans between teeth. Some people find it easier than string floss.
Interproximal reduction (IPR): Interproximal reduction, or IPR, is the removal of a very thin layer of enamel between teeth to make a small amount of room.
Intraoral camera: An intraoral camera is a small camera on a wand that shows close images of teeth and gums on a screen, so patients and dentists can look at them together.
Intraoral scanner: An intraoral scanner is a small handheld camera that records the shape of teeth and gums as a 3D digital model. It can replace putty-style impressions.
Invisalign: Invisalign is a brand name for a system of clear aligners, a series of removable plastic trays used to straighten teeth.
IV sedation: IV sedation is a form of sedation in which medicine is given through a small tube in a vein, which lets the care team adjust the depth of sedation during care.

J

Jawbone: The jawbone is the set of bones that holds your teeth. It includes the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible) and the joints that connect them to the skull.

L

Laser dentistry: Laser dentistry uses focused light energy to treat teeth or gum tissue. Dentists use different lasers for soft tissue work and for some hard tissue tasks.
Leukoplakia: Leukoplakia is a white or gray patch inside the mouth that does not wipe away. Some patches are linked to oral cancer, so they need checking.
Lidocaine: Lidocaine is a widely used numbing medicine that blocks nerve signals, and dentists use it as a local anesthetic in injections and sometimes in gels or sprays.
Lithium disilicate (e.max): Lithium disilicate is a strong glass ceramic used for tooth-colored crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays. E.max is a well-known brand name for it.
Local anesthetic: A local anesthetic is a medicine injected near a tooth or area of the mouth that blocks nerve signals so the area goes numb during treatment.
Loose tooth (tooth mobility): A loose tooth, or tooth mobility, is a tooth that moves more than normal, often because gum disease, injury, or grinding has weakened its support.
Lost filling: A lost filling is a filling that has fallen out or broken, leaving a hole in the tooth. Sugarless gum or dental cement can cover it until you see a dentist.
Luxated tooth: A luxated tooth is a tooth that has been pushed out of its normal position by injury but is not fully knocked out. It may be loose, tilted, pushed in or pushed out.

M

Major services benefit: A major services benefit is the plan tier for larger work, such as crowns, dentures, implants and oral surgery. Plans usually pay the smallest share here.
Malocclusion: Malocclusion means a bad bite. The upper and lower teeth do not line up correctly when the mouth closes, and it comes in several types.
Mandible: The mandible is the lower jaw bone. It holds the bottom teeth and is the only bone of the skull that moves, which lets you chew and speak.
Maryland bridge: A Maryland bridge is a bridge that replaces a missing tooth with a false tooth held by thin metal or ceramic wings bonded to the backs of nearby teeth.
Maxilla: The maxilla is the upper jaw bone. It holds the top teeth, forms part of the roof of the mouth and sits next to the sinuses.
Maxillary sinus: The maxillary sinus is an air-filled space in the upper jaw bone, on each side of the nose. It sits just above the roots of the upper back teeth.
Medicare Advantage dental: Medicare Advantage dental is dental coverage some Medicare Advantage plans offer as an added benefit. Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care.
Mini implants: Mini implants are dental implants with a much thinner post than standard implants, used most often to steady a lower denture.
Minimal sedation: Minimal sedation is the lightest level of sedation, in which you feel relaxed but stay awake and can answer questions normally.
Missing tooth clause: A missing tooth clause limits or denies payment to replace a tooth that was already missing before your coverage began.
Mixed dentition: Mixed dentition is the stage of childhood when both baby teeth and adult teeth are in the mouth at the same time.
MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) dental: MO HealthNet is Missouri's Medicaid program. It covers dental care for some groups, such as children and pregnant women, but dental coverage for other adults is limited.
Moderate sedation: Moderate sedation is a level of sedation in which you feel sleepy and may not remember much, but you can still be awakened and respond.
Molar: Molars are the large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth. They are your main chewing teeth, and they crush and grind food.
Mouth guard: A mouth guard is a soft device worn over the teeth to cushion blows during sports or to protect teeth from grinding at night.
Mouth sores: Mouth sores are open spots, ulcers or blisters in the mouth. Most come from small injuries or common causes and clear up on their own.
Mouthwash (mouth rinse): Mouthwash, or mouth rinse, is a liquid you swish in your mouth. Some kinds help reduce plaque, gingivitis and cavities, and others only freshen breath.

N

Nerve block: A nerve block is an injection of local anesthetic near a main nerve. It numbs a wider area, such as several lower teeth and part of the lip, than a single-tooth injection.
Night guard: A night guard is a custom-fit plastic cover worn over the teeth during sleep to protect them from grinding and clenching.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): Nitrous oxide, called laughing gas, is a gas mixed with oxygen and breathed through a small nose mask to help you relax during dental care.
Numbing (dental numbness): Dental numbness is the loss of feeling in part of the mouth caused by local anesthetic. It lets the dentist work without pain in that area and wears off over time.

O

Obstructive sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which the upper airway is blocked partly or fully during sleep, causing pauses in breathing.
Occlusal adjustment: Occlusal adjustment is the careful reshaping of small spots on teeth so the upper and lower teeth meet evenly when you bite together.
Occlusal splint: An occlusal splint is a hard or soft plastic appliance worn over the teeth to protect them and to ease strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
Occlusal surface: The occlusal surface is the chewing surface of a back tooth. It is the part that meets the teeth on the opposite jaw when you bite.
Onlay: An onlay is a custom-made repair that fills a cavity and also covers one or more cusps of the tooth. It is bigger than an inlay but smaller than a crown.
Open bite: An open bite is when the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, leaving a gap between them.
Oral cancer screening: An oral cancer screening is a check of the mouth, tongue, throat and neck by a dentist for signs of oral cancer. It looks for changes that need a closer look.
Oral conscious sedation: Oral conscious sedation is a form of sedation in which you take a prescribed pill before a dental visit to help you feel calm while staying awake.
Oral hygiene: Oral hygiene is the daily care that keeps your mouth clean: brushing, cleaning between teeth, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits.
Oral surgeon: An oral surgeon, or oral and maxillofacial surgeon, is a dentist with extra training in surgery of the mouth, jaws and face.
Oral thrush: Oral thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth. It causes creamy white patches on the tongue or inner cheeks.
Orthodontic elastics: Orthodontic elastics are small rubber bands that hook onto braces and apply extra pull to move teeth and improve how the upper and lower teeth fit.
Orthodontic relapse: Orthodontic relapse is the tendency of teeth to drift back toward their starting positions after braces or aligners are removed.
Orthodontics: Orthodontics is the area of dentistry that diagnoses, prevents, and corrects crooked teeth and bite problems, most often with braces or clear aligners.
Orthodontist: An orthodontist is a dentist with extra training in how teeth and jaws grow and fit together. Orthodontics is the recognized dental specialty for straightening them.
Osseointegration: Osseointegration is the process by which jawbone grows tightly against a dental implant, which holds the implant firmly in place.
Out-of-network dentist: An out-of-network dentist has no contract with your dental plan. The plan may pay less or nothing, and you may owe more of the bill.
Overbite: An overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than they should. It is one type of bad bite, or malocclusion.
Overdenture: An overdenture is a removable denture that fits over and attaches to dental implants or to prepared natural tooth roots for extra stability.

P

Pacifier habit: A pacifier habit is the regular use of a pacifier to soothe a child, and it can affect tooth position if it continues for years.
Palatal expander: A palatal expander is a device that sits across the roof of the mouth and gradually widens a narrow upper jaw.
Palate: The palate is the roof of your mouth. It has a hard front part and a soft back part, and it separates the mouth from the nose.
Panoramic X-ray: A panoramic X-ray is one wide image of all the teeth and both jaws. A machine rotates around the head to take it.
Partial denture: A partial denture is a removable appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth and attaches to the natural teeth that remain.
Pediatric dentist: A pediatric dentist is a dentist with extra training after dental school in the oral health of infants, children, and teens, including those with special needs.
Peri-implantitis: Peri-implantitis is inflammation and bone loss around a dental implant. It is caused by bacteria and is similar to gum disease around a natural tooth.
Periapical X-ray: A periapical X-ray shows one or two whole teeth from the crown to the root tip and the bone around them. Dentists use it to check a specific tooth.
Pericoronitis: Pericoronitis is swelling and infection of the gum around a tooth that has only partly come in, most often a wisdom tooth.
Periodontal charting: Periodontal charting is the written record of gum measurements taken around each tooth, including pocket depths, bleeding, and loose teeth.
Periodontal ligament: The periodontal ligament is a band of tough fibers that connects the root of a tooth to the bone of its socket. It holds the tooth in place and absorbs chewing force.
Periodontal maintenance: Periodontal maintenance is ongoing care after gum disease treatment. It is done at regular visits to keep the gums stable.
Periodontal pocket: A periodontal pocket is a deepened gap between a tooth and the gum that forms when gum disease damages the tissue holding the gum to the tooth.
Periodontist: A periodontist is a dentist with extra training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and in placing dental implants.
Periodontitis: Periodontitis is advanced gum disease. It damages the tissue and bone that hold teeth in place and can cause deep pockets and loose teeth.
Permanent teeth: Permanent teeth are the adult set of teeth. Most adults have 32, including four wisdom teeth, and they replace the baby teeth.
Pontic: A pontic is the artificial tooth in a dental bridge that fills the space where a natural tooth is missing.
Porcelain: Porcelain is a hard, tooth-colored ceramic used to make crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations that look like natural teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown: A porcelain-fused-to-metal crown has a metal shell inside for strength and a layer of tooth-colored porcelain over it for a natural look.
Post-operative instructions: Post-operative instructions are the written steps your dentist gives you for care after surgery or an extraction, such as how to control bleeding and what to eat.
PPO dental plan: A PPO dental plan uses a network of contracted dentists with set fees. You may see dentists outside the network, but you usually pay more.
Pre-authorization (pre-determination): Pre-authorization or pre-determination is a review before treatment in which the dentist sends a treatment plan to your insurer to learn what the plan expects to pay.
Premium: A premium is the amount you or your employer pay to an insurer for dental coverage, usually every month, whether or not you use care.
Premolar (bicuspid): Premolars, also called bicuspids, are the teeth between the canines and the molars. They crush and tear food and have two cusps each.
Preventive care benefit: A preventive care benefit is the part of a plan that covers routine checkups, cleanings, X-rays and fluoride, often with little or no cost to you.
Primary molars: Primary molars are the eight back baby teeth, used for chewing, that hold space for the adult premolars that replace them.
Primary teeth (baby teeth): Primary teeth, or baby teeth, are the first set of 20 teeth. They start to come in around six months and are replaced by adult teeth.
Probing depth: Probing depth is the measurement, in millimeters, of the space between the gum and the tooth, taken with a thin probe during a gum exam.
Prosthodontist: A prosthodontist is a dentist with extra training in replacing missing teeth and rebuilding damaged ones. Prosthodontics is the recognized dental specialty for this work.
Pulp cap: A pulp cap is a dressing placed over exposed or nearly exposed pulp to protect it. The goal is to keep the pulp healthy and the tooth alive.
Pulp vitality test: A pulp vitality test checks whether the nerve and blood supply inside a tooth is alive. Dentists use cold, heat or electric tests to find out.
Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy removes the diseased part of the pulp in the crown of a tooth and leaves the healthy pulp in the root. It is most often done on baby teeth.

R

Radiation dose: Radiation dose is the amount of X-ray energy the body absorbs during imaging. Dental X-rays give low doses, and dentists aim to use no more than they need.
Recall visit (checkup): A recall visit is a regular return visit for a checkup and cleaning, set by your dentist based on your needs. Many people go twice a year.
Remineralization: Remineralization is the natural repair of early enamel damage when minerals like calcium, phosphate and fluoride return to the tooth surface.
Retainer: A retainer is a custom-made appliance worn after braces or clear aligners to hold the teeth in their new positions and help keep them from shifting.
Root canal therapy: Root canal therapy removes the damaged or infected pulp from inside a tooth, cleans the space, and seals it. It is meant to save the tooth.
Root decay: Root decay is a cavity on the root surface of a tooth, usually where the gum has pulled back. Roots decay more easily than enamel.

S

Saliva: Saliva, or spit, is the fluid made by your salivary glands. It washes the mouth, helps you taste and swallow, and protects teeth from decay.
Salivary glands: Salivary glands are small organs in and around the mouth that make saliva. Saliva moistens the mouth, helps you swallow and helps protect your teeth.
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning): Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning below the gumline. It is used to treat gum disease by removing tartar and bacteria from the tooth roots.
Sedation monitoring: Sedation monitoring is the ongoing checking of a patient's heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level and alertness while sedation medicine is in use.
Self-pay patient: A self-pay patient pays for dental care out of pocket instead of through insurance. Payment is due from the patient, often at the time of care.
Silver diamine fluoride: Silver diamine fluoride, or SDF, is a liquid a dentist paints on a cavity to help stop decay from growing, and it can leave the spot dark.
Sinus lift: A sinus lift is a surgery that adds bone to the upper jaw beneath the sinus so there is enough height to hold a dental implant.
Smile makeover: A smile makeover is a plan that combines more than one cosmetic treatment to improve how your smile looks. It is not a single procedure or a formal dental term.
Socket preservation (ridge preservation): Socket preservation, also called ridge preservation, places graft material in the empty socket after a tooth is removed to help keep the shape and height of the bone.
Space maintainer: A space maintainer is a small metal or plastic appliance that holds open the gap left by an early baby-tooth loss until the adult tooth is ready.
Sports guard: A sports guard is a mouth protector designed to absorb impact during sports so teeth, lips, and jaws are less likely to be hurt.
Stainless steel crown: A stainless steel crown is a silver-colored metal cap, ready-made in many sizes, that covers a badly decayed or weak baby tooth.
Surgical extraction: A surgical extraction is a tooth removal that needs more than simple loosening and lifting. The dentist may cut the gum or divide the tooth into pieces.
Sutures (stitches): Sutures, or stitches, are small threads that close a gum opening after surgery or an extraction. Many dental stitches dissolve on their own.

T

Tartar (calculus): Tartar, also called calculus, is plaque that has hardened on the teeth. Only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove it.
Teeth splinting: Teeth splinting joins two or more teeth together with a small bonded strip or wire so loose or injured teeth are held still while they heal.
Teeth whitening: Teeth whitening uses a bleaching agent to make teeth lighter. It can lighten many stains, but it does not work on every tooth or on dental work.
Teething: Teething is the normal process in which a baby's first teeth push up through the gums, which can make a child fussy and drool more.
Temporary crown: A temporary crown is a short-term cap, often made of resin or acrylic, that covers a prepared tooth while the final crown is made.
Temporary filling: A temporary filling is a short-term material placed in a tooth to protect it between visits, until a lasting filling or crown can be made.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ): The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, are the two joints in front of your ears that connect your lower jaw to your skull. They let you open, close and move your jaw.
Thumb sucking: Thumb sucking is a natural habit in babies and young children, and it can affect how teeth and the mouth grow if it lasts too long.
Titanium: Titanium is a strong, light metal that the body tolerates well, used to make the posts of most dental implants and some other dental parts.
TMJ disorder (TMD): TMJ disorders, or TMD, are a group of conditions that cause pain and trouble in the jaw joint and the muscles that move the jaw.
Tongue scraper: A tongue scraper is a tool that cleans the tongue by pulling from back to front. It is a personal choice, not a required step.
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia): Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition in which a short or tight band of tissue under the tongue limits how freely the tongue can move.
Tooth decay: Tooth decay is damage to a tooth caused by acid that bacteria make from sugars. If it is not treated, it can cause pain, infection and tooth loss.
Tooth discoloration: Tooth discoloration is a change in the color of a tooth, such as yellow, brown, gray or dark spots. Stains, trauma, medicines and age can all play a part.
Tooth eruption: Tooth eruption is the process in which a tooth moves up and breaks through the gum into the mouth, first for baby teeth and later for adult teeth.
Tooth extraction: A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. A dentist does it when other treatments cannot save the tooth.
Tooth pulp: Tooth pulp is the soft center of a tooth. It holds nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue, and it lets the tooth sense temperature.
Tooth reimplantation: Tooth reimplantation, also called replantation, means placing a knocked-out tooth back into its socket so the tissues around it may reattach.
Tooth root: The tooth root is the part of a tooth that sits below the gumline, inside the jawbone. It anchors the tooth and holds the nerve and blood supply.
Tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is a short, sharp twinge from hot, cold, sweet or sour things. It often happens when dentin is exposed.
Tooth socket: A tooth socket is the hole in the jawbone that holds the root of a tooth. It is lined by the periodontal ligament.
Tooth wear: Tooth wear is the gradual loss of tooth surface. It can come from grinding, rubbing against other teeth or objects, or acid.
Toothache: A toothache is pain in or around a tooth. It often comes from a cavity or infection and is a reason to call a dentist.
Topical anesthetic: A topical anesthetic is a gel, spray, or patch put on the surface of the gums or mouth to numb the area briefly before an injection.
Treatment plan: A treatment plan is the dentist's written list of the care you need, in what order, and often with the steps and visits that each part involves.

U

Underbite: An underbite is when the lower front teeth stick out past the upper front teeth when the mouth is closed.
Usual, customary and reasonable (UCR) fee: A UCR fee is the amount an insurer treats as the standard charge for a service in your area. It is used to set what the plan will pay.

W

Waiting period: A waiting period is the time you must wait after your dental coverage starts before the plan pays for certain services, often major work like crowns.
Water flosser: A water flosser is a handheld device that sprays a pulsing stream of water between and around teeth to remove food and plaque.
Wisdom teeth (third molars): Wisdom teeth are the third molars, the last teeth to come in. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties.
Wisdom tooth removal: Wisdom tooth removal is taking out one or more third molars, usually because they are impacted, infected, or damaging nearby teeth.

X

Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used to sweeten sugar-free gum and mints. Cavity-causing bacteria cannot turn it into acid the way they do with sugar.

Z

Zirconia: Zirconia is a very hard white ceramic made from zirconium dioxide that dentists use for crowns, bridges, and implant parts.

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3D printing in dentistry: 3D printing in dentistry builds models, guides and appliances layer by layer from a digital design. It is also called additive manufacturing.

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