Glossary
Dental terms, in plain English.
32 common procedures, conditions, and treatments explained simply. Each one links to what to expect, what to ask, and a way to match with a practice that does it.
Preventive Care
Dental Exam (Checkup)
A check of your teeth, gums, and mouth to catch problems early, often paired with a cleaning.
Dental Sealant
A thin protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth to block decay.
Fluoride Treatment
A mineral treatment that strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.
Pediatric Dentistry
Dental care focused on infants, children, and teens, in a kid-friendly setting.
Prophylaxis (Dental Cleaning)
A routine professional cleaning that removes plaque and tartar to keep teeth and gums healthy.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sharp discomfort from hot, cold, or sweet triggers, often a sign worth checking out.
Restorative & Repair
Cavity (Tooth Decay)
A damaged area of a tooth caused by decay, usually repaired with a filling.
Dental Bridge
A fixed replacement that fills the gap of one or more missing teeth using the neighboring teeth for support.
Dental Crown
A custom cap that covers a damaged or weak tooth to restore its strength and shape.
Dental Filling
A material used to repair a tooth after decay is removed, restoring its shape and function.
Dentures
Removable replacements for missing teeth, either a full set or a partial.
Emergency Dentistry
Same-day care for dental pain, swelling, knocked-out teeth, and other urgent problems.
Night Guard
A custom mouthpiece worn at night to protect teeth from grinding and clenching.
Root Canal
A treatment that removes infected tissue from inside a tooth to save it and stop the pain.
TMJ Disorder
A problem with the jaw joint and muscles that can cause pain, clicking, or limited movement.
Cosmetic & Smile
Orthodontics & Alignment
Braces
Brackets and wires that gradually move teeth into better alignment and correct the bite.
Invisalign (Clear Aligners)
A set of clear, removable trays that gradually straighten teeth without metal braces.
Malocclusion (Bite Problems)
A misaligned bite, such as an overbite or underbite, that orthodontic treatment can correct.
Gums & Periodontal
Gingivitis
The earliest, reversible stage of gum disease, marked by red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
An infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth, ranging from mild to advanced.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
A deep cleaning below the gumline to treat gum disease and help the gums reattach.
Surgery & Replacement
Bone Graft
A procedure that rebuilds jawbone so the area can support an implant or stay healthy.
Dental Implant
A titanium post placed in the jaw that acts as a permanent root for a replacement tooth.
Tooth Extraction
The removal of a tooth that is too damaged, infected, or crowded to keep.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Surgery to remove the third molars when they are impacted, crowded, or causing problems.
Comfort & Sedation
Dental Anxiety
Fear or unease about dental visits, which gentle practices and sedation options can address.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
A mild inhaled sedative that eases anxiety during treatment and wears off quickly.
Oral Conscious Sedation
A prescribed pill taken before a visit to ease anxiety while you stay awake and responsive.
Sedation Dentistry
Medication options that help anxious patients stay calm and comfortable during treatment.
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