This comprehensive dental terminology cheat guide covers a wide range of topics related to dentistry, from orthodontics and preventative measures to restorative and surgical procedures.
Here, you’ll find valuable insights into how various dental treatments work, their benefits, and what to expect throughout the process. Whether you’re looking to correct misalignments, maintain proper oral hygiene, or restore your smile.
We broke the topic into several main categories:
- Orthodontics
- Oral Surgery
- Dental Sedation
- Restorative Dentistry
- Preventative Dentistry
- Periodontics
- Endodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Other Common Dental Conditions
Lets dive in, shall we!
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. It primarily involves correcting misaligned teeth and jaws to improve overall oral function, bite, and aesthetics.
Orthodontic treatments can include various devices, such as braces and clear aligners, which gradually shift teeth into their proper positions. The goal of orthodontics is to create a healthier, more aligned smile while enhancing both functionality and appearance.
Orthodontics for adults
A specialized area of orthodontics that focuses on diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities in adults. It aims to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaw, enhancing both function and cosmetic appeal.
Orthodontics for kids
A specialized branch of orthodontics focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities in children and adolescents. It aims to ensure proper alignment of teeth and jaws during the critical growth periods.
Common Orthodontic Devices
- Braces: Apply continuous pressure to gradually move teeth into the desired position, improving function and aesthetics.
- Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): Removable, nearly invisible aligners that straighten teeth comfortably. Ideal for adults and teens.
- Retainers: Maintain teeth alignment post-treatment, preventing teeth from shifting back.
- Palate Expander: Widens the upper jaw to create space and improve bite alignment, often used in children.
- Bite Plates: Help manage bruxism (teeth grinding), jaw disorders, and provide teeth protection.
Common Orthodontic Conditions
- Overcrowding: Lack of space in the jaw causes teeth to overlap or push together, impacting alignment and hygiene.
- Gaps (Diastema): Spaces between teeth, commonly seen in the upper front teeth.
- Malocclusions: Misalignment of upper and lower teeth, impacting function and appearance.
- Tooth Movement: Process during orthodontic treatment where controlled forces reposition teeth for better alignment.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery is a specialized field of dentistry that involves surgical procedures performed on the mouth, jaw, and facial structures. This branch addresses a variety of conditions, including the extraction of teeth (such as wisdom teeth), jaw alignment issues, treatment of oral pathologies, and placement of dental implants.
Oral surgeons may also perform surgeries to correct congenital conditions, manage trauma, or treat diseases affecting the soft and hard tissues of the mouth. The goal of oral surgery is to restore functionality, alleviate pain, and improve cosmetic appeal. Some common surgical procedures are:
Extractions
The two main types of extractions are simple and surgical. Simple extractions are defined as the removal of teeth that are visible above the gumline. Surgical extractions are more complex removals that often involve impacted teeth that are below the gumline.
Dental Implants
Dental implants refer to the surgical placement of titanium posts into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots for supporting crowns, bridges and dentures.
Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery is a type of oral surgery that corrects irregularities in the jaw and improves function and facial appearance. Both the upper and lower jaw can be repositioned during this surgery.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a procedure to augment or rebuild the jawbone. This is often performed before dental implants to ensure adequate bone density.
Cleft Lip & Palate Surgery
Surgical procedures to repair congenital conditions that affect the lip and/or the roof of the mouth. These conditions occur when the tissues that form the lip and palate do not fully come together during fetal development which lead to openings or gaps.
Frenectomy
A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or modification of the frenum which is a small fold of tissue that connects the lip or tongue to the gums. This procedure is commonly performed to address issues related to tongue-tie or lip-tie, which can affect oral function, speech and dental alignment.
Treatment of Oral Pathologies
Treatment of oral pathologies refers to the medical and surgical management of various conditions that affect the mouth, including diseases of the teeth, gums, tongue and other soft and hard tissues. Some types of oral pathologies include: cavities, periodontal disease, oral cancer, cysts, tumors and oral lesions.
Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery involves a range of surgical procedures aimed at treating periodontal disease, which affects the gum tissue and supporting structures of the teeth. The goal of these surgeries is to restore health to the tissues supporting the teeth, prevent further tooth loss and improve overall oral function and cosmetic appeal.
Facial Trauma Surgery
Facial trauma surgery refers to surgical procedures that repair injuries to the face, jaw and surrounding structures resulting from accidents, athletic injuries, violence or other traumatic events. The goal with facial trauma surgery is to restore both function and aesthetics to the affected areas.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth removal is defined as the extraction of one or more third molars. Most people typically have four, but it is possible to not develop all four. This type of extraction is often done when the wisdom teeth get impacted or cause pain or infection.
Maxillary Sinus Lift
A maxillary sinus lift is a surgical procedure performed to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw (maxilla) beneath the sinus cavity. This procedure is commonly done in preparation for dental implants, especially when there is insufficient bone height in the posterior maxilla due to bone loss or the presence of a sinus.
TMJ Surgery
TMJ surgery refers to a variety of surgical procedures aimed at treating disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. These disorders can result in pain, dysfunction and limited jaw movement.
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy or dental splints have failed to provide relief.
Dental Sedation
Dental sedation refers to the use of medication to help patients relax as well as reduce anxiety during dental procedures. Sedation can range from minimal, where patients remain awake but relaxed, to deep sedation where patients are not fully awake but can be easily awoken with proper stimulation.
Minimal Sedation
Patients are awake and fully responsive but feel relaxed. Administered through oral medications, IV sedation or a combination of both.
Moderate Sedation
Patients remain awake but may have limited awareness of the procedure and may not remember it afterwards. Administered through oral medication, IV sedation or a combination of both.
Deep Sedation
Patients are on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened with stimulation. Administered through IV sedation or a combination of medications.
General Anesthesia
Patients are completely unresponsive and unconscious during this procedure. Administered through IV or inhaled gasses that are managed by an anesthesiologist or dental anesthetist.
Nitrous Oxide
Commonly known as laughing gas, patients are sedated with a mask that releases nitrous oxide and oxygen into the body that provides a calming effect and allows the patient to feel relaxed during dental procedures.
Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating dental issues to restore the health, function, and aesthetics of damaged or missing teeth.
Restorative dentistry encompasses various procedures, including fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants, aimed at repairing tooth decay, restoring broken or worn teeth, and replacing lost teeth.
The ultimate goal of restorative dentistry is to help patients regain their ability to chew, speak and smile confidently, while also promoting overall health.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material is applied to the surface of a tooth and hardened with a special light. This technique is used to improve the appearance of teeth, repair minor imperfections and enhance dental function.
Dental bonding is often used to fix chipped or cracked teeth, discolored teeth, gaps between teeth or overall shape of the tooth. Discover all you need to know about dental bonding in Etobicoke.
Different Types of Dental Fillings
A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. The filling material is used to restore the tooth’s shape, function and integrity which prevents further damage and sensitivity. There are several types of fillings:
- Composite Resin Fillings: Composite resin fillings are made from a tooth-coloured resin material and blend well with the natural tooth structure. Ideal for visible areas of the teeth.
- Amalgam Fillings: Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals including silver, mercury, tin and copper. They are known for their strength and durability and are often used for the back teeth as they are less noticeable.
- Ceramic Fillings: Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain or a similar material and are highly aesthetic and stain resistant. These are often used in areas where appearance is important such as the front teeth.
- Glass Ionomer Fillings: Glass ionomer fillings are made from a mixture of acrylic and glass, these fillings release fluoride, which can help protect the tooth from further decay. Commonly used for fillings in areas that are not subjected to heavy chewing pressure or as a temporary filling.
- Resin Ionomer Fillings: Resin ionomer fillings are similar to glass ionomer but with added resin for improved strength and cosmetic appeal. They are commonly used for filling cavities with less bite pressure, often in pediatric dentistry.
- Temporary Fillings: Temporary fillings are short-term solutions used to protect a tooth until a permanent filling can be placed. They are commonly used after root canals or when a more extensive treatment is planned.
Preventative Dentistry
Preventative dental care encompasses practices and treatments aimed at maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues before they occur. This proactive approach focuses on education, regular examinations and preventative treatments to help individuals maintain healthy teeth and gums. Preventative dental care is essential for maintaining good oral health and avoiding more extensive or costly treatments in the future.
- Dental Cleanings: A dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from teeth that regular brushing and flossing can miss.
- Fluoride Treatment: An application of fluoride varnish or gel to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of decay.
- Dental Examinations: It is typically recommended to have a check-up with your dentist every 6-12 months. Depending on your oral health, some dentists may recommend as little as 3 months between examinations and cleanings. It is important to have regular check-ups to monitor oral health and identify potential problems early on.
- Dental Sealants: Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars (back teeth) to prevent decay. These are commonly used with children and adolescents.
- Dietary Counseling/Education: It is important to be educated on proper brushing and flossing techniques, dietary choices and the importance of regular dental visits. Limiting sugary foods and beverages will help prevent tooth decay as well as gum disease.
- Mouthguards: Mouthguards are custom-fitted appliances normally worn during athletic activity or while sleeping to protect the teeth from injuries or bruxism (teeth grinding). They help to prevent damage to the teeth and joints in the jaw.
- Tobacco Cessation Programs: Smoking is linked to gum disease and oral cancer as well as many other dental problems. It is important to understand the risks and reduce your exposure to them as much as possible. There are several free smoking cessation programs in Canada that will help you quit for good.
Periodontics
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on structures supporting the teeth, including the gums and bone. Periodontists diagnose and treat conditions such as gum disease, perform procedures to restore oral health, place dental implants and provide guidance on maintaining good periodontal health. The most common periodontal procedures are:
Scaling and Root Planning
A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
Periodontal Surgery
Procedures like flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back to remove tartar and then stitched back into place.
Bone Grafting
A procedure to restore lost bone in the jaw, often performed before dental implant placement.
Soft Tissue Grafting
A procedure used to cover exposed roots or increase gum tissue thickness.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Involves using special membranes to promote the growth of new bone and tissue.
Implant Placement
Inserting dental implants to replace missing teeth.
Maintenance Therapy
Frequent cleanings and examinations for patients with a history of periodontal disease.
Endodontics (root canal therapy)
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating issues related to the interior of the tooth, particularly the pulp and of the tissues surrounding the roots. Endodontic procedures are essential after dental infection or fracture for saving teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted, ensuring the health of the dental pulp and alleviating pain related to dental issues.
Here are some common endodontic procedures:
- Root Canal Therapy: The most well known endodontic procedure, where infected or damaged pulp is removed, the root canals are cleaned, shaped and then filled to prevent further infection.
- Retreatment: If a previous root canal treatment fails, a retreatment procedure may be necessary to remove old filling material and clean the canals again.
- Apicoectomy: A surgical procedure where the tip of the tooth’s root is removed, often performed when a root canal has not successfully resolved an oral infection.
- Pulp Capping: A procedure to protect the pulp of the tooth when it has been exposed or nearly exposed, aiming to encourage healing and maintain vitality.
- Emergency Pulp Therapy: Quick treatment for pain or infection, often used in dental trauma cases.
- Vital Pulp Therapy: Treatment aimed at preserving the health of the pulp in young teeth with large open roots.
Prosthodontics
Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry focused on restoring and replacing missing or damaged teeth to enhance both functionality and appearance. Prosthodontic procedures aim to restore the natural look and function of teeth, improve oral health and enhance the patient’s overall quality of life. Here are some common prosthodontic procedures:
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength and appearance. They are often used to protect weak teeth, restore broken teeth or improve the visual quality of the tooth. There are six different types of dental crowns:
- Porcelain Crowns are made entirely of porcelain and often used for front teeth due to their natural appearance and ability to match tooth color.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM) combine a metal base for strength with a porcelain exterior for aesthetics. These are suitable for front and back teeth and provide durability while maintaining a natural look.
- Metal Crowns are made from gold, platinum or base metal alloys. These are highly durable and resistant to wear and typically used for molars where strength is essential.
- Resin Crowns are made of dental resin material and are generally less expensive but also less durable. These are often used as a temporary solution.
- Zirconia Crowns are made from zirconium dioxide which is a strong ceramic material. Zirconia crowns offer high strength and natural appearance which are suitable for both the front and back teeth.
- All-Ceramic Crowns are made entirely of ceramic materials and are the aesthetic choice for front teeth. They are less durable than metal crowns but have a more natural look.
Veneers
Veneers are thin custom-made shells made of porcelain or composite resin and designed to cover the front surface of the teeth to enhance cosmetic appeal. They are used in cosmetic dentistry to address various aesthetic concerns such as discoloration, chips, gaps and misalignments.
Lumineers
Lumineers are a brand of ultra thin custom-made dental veneers that are designed to enhance the appearance of the teeth. Unlike traditional veneers, lumineers require minimal to no removal of the tooth’s enamel which makes them a less invasive option for cosmetic dental treatment.
Inlay/Onlay
- Inlay: A dental inlay is a type of indirect restoration used to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. It is custom-made to fit the specific cavity of the tooth and is typically crafted from materials such as porcelain, composite resin or gold. These are commonly used when there is too much damage for a simple filling but not enough to need a crown. Inlays are an effective way to restore the function and appearance of the teeth while providing a durable and cosmetically appealing solution for moderate damage or decay.
- Onlay: A dental onlay is a type of indirect restoration used to repair a tooth that has sustained significant decay or damage. Unlike a filling which is placed directly into a cavity, an onlay is custom made to fit the specific contours of the tooth and covers one or more cusps (the pointed parts) of the tooth.
The difference between the two:
An inlay is typically used for moderate decay or damage where the structure of the tooth is mostly intact. An onlay is used for more extensive decay or damage where additional support is needed for the tooth structure.
Dental Bridge (bonded or fixed)
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth and to help maintain the alignment of the teeth. It is anchored to the adjacent teeth or dental implants, providing a permanent solution that restores function and aesthetics to the smile.
There are three main types of dental bridges:
- Traditional Bridge: This type of bridge is the most common and involves creating crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and attaching a false tooth in between.
- Bonded Bridge (Maryland Bridge): This bridge uses a framework of metal or porcelain that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. It is less invasive as it does not require extensive alteration of the adjacent teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: This option uses dental implants instead of natural teeth for support, providing a strong and stable foundation.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
A full mouth reconstruction is a dental treatment plan designed to improve the overall appearance, function and health of a patient’s mouth. This procedure involves a combination of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments tailored to the individual’s needs and goals. Patients with multiple problems such as severe tooth decay, gum disease, missing teeth or significant wear and tear may want to consider a full mouth reconstruction.
Dentures
Dentures are removable artificial teeth and gums designed to replace missing teeth. Dentures help restore the ability to chew, speak and maintain facial structure which provides a functional and aesthetic solution for patients with tooth loss. There are five main types of dentures:
- Complete dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw and most commonly used when a patient has lost all of their natural teeth.
- Partial dentures are used to replace some missing teeth, but not all. They are attached to existing natural teeth for support and can even be removable.
- Immediate dentures are inserted right after tooth extraction, allowing for a quicker restoration of appearance while the gums heal. They may require adjustments later.
- Overdentures fit over existing teeth or dental implants, providing extra stability. They can be complete or partial.
- Implant-Supported Dentures are attached to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. They offer more stability than traditional dentures and can be removable or fixed.
Learn more about affordable dentures in Etobicoke
Other Common Dental Topics
In the realm of oral health, a variety of common dental topics often affect individuals of all ages. Understanding these conditions is essential for maintaining good dental hygiene and preventing potential complications. From baby bottle caries, which can impact infants’ teeth, to bruxism, a condition that can cause significant wear and discomfort, each issue presents unique challenges. Additionally, concerns like dry mouth and bad breath can affect daily life, while habits such as tobacco use can have severe long-term effects on oral health. This overview aims to shed light on these common dental topics, providing insights and preventative measures to promote a healthier smile.
Baby Bottle Caries
Also known as early childhood caries, this condition occurs when sugary liquids like milk or juice are frequently given to infants in bottles, leading to tooth decay. The sugars can remain on the teeth for extended periods, promoting bacterial growth and cavities. Limit bottle feeding to water only when putting a child to bed and encourage regular oral hygiene such as wiping gums and brushing teeth as they erupt.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, often occurring during sleep. It can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain and headaches. Treatment options normally include stress management techniques, wearing a mouthguard at night or dental adjustments.
Dry Mouth
Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth occurs when there is not enough saliva production. It can lead to difficulties with speaking, chewing, swallowing as well as an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Common causes include side effects from certain medications, dehydration or some medical conditions. Staying hydrated and maintaining good oral hygiene can help alleviate symptoms.
Bad Breath
Bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be caused by poor oral hygiene, certain foods, smoking or underlying health conditions. Staying hydrated along with flossing, brushing and regular dental examinations can help to reduce bad breath.
Oral Piercings
This refers to the practice of piercing areas of the mouth such as the tongue or lips. While piercings have become very common in recent years, they still carry risks such as infections, gum damage and allergic reactions. Proper aftercare and hygiene are essential to prevent complications and promote healing after getting an oral piercing.
Tobacco
Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, has major negative effects on oral health. It increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancers. Quitting tobacco use and seeking support through cessation programs can significantly improve your overall health.
Whitening
Whitening is the process of lightening the colour of the teeth using bleaching agents. Methods include professional dental treatments or at-home kits. In the dental office, we use a special whitening lamp to activate the whitening gel for approximately 60 minutes, creating a more dramatic whitening effect for best results. Always consult with your dentist before whitening, especially if you are buying an at-home kit as some can be damaging to your oral health. Learn more about dental whitening in Etobicoke.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer awareness is crucial for early detection and treatment, significantly improving survival rates.
Regular dental examinations are essential, as dental professionals are trained to identify early signs of oral cancer, such as unusual sores, lumps, or changes in the mouth that may go unnoticed by patients. Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Educating oneself about these risks and recognizing potential symptoms can lead to timely interventions, making awareness and routine screenings vital components of oral health care.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue that can cause discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. This sensitivity often arises from enamel erosion, gum recession or dental conditions like cavities. It is important to identify the underlying causes to effectively manage and treat sensitivity.
Dentists may recommend desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, or other strategies tailored to individual needs. By addressing tooth sensitivity early, patients can improve their overall comfort and maintain better oral health, allowing them to enjoy a wider range of foods and activities without fear or discomfort.
Dental Anxiety
Dental Anxiety is a common issue that affects many individuals, often preventing them from seeking essential dental care. This fear can stem from various factors, including previous negative experiences, fear of pain, or even the sounds and sights of a dental office.
Understanding that dental anxiety is widespread can help patients feel less isolated. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness and discussing concerns with the dentist can significantly alleviate anxiety. Furthermore, many dental practices now offer sedation options to help patients feel more comfortable during their visits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the dental cheat guide serves as an essential tool for anyone looking to improve their understanding of dental health and treatments. By exploring topics ranging from orthodontics and preventative care to surgical interventions and cosmetic enhancements, you are better prepared to navigate your dental health. Maintaining oral health is not merely about addressing issues as they arise; it is about proactive engagement in preventative practices and making informed choices. Whether you are considering braces for misaligned teeth or seeking restorative options for damaged smiles, knowledge is your best ally in achieving optimal oral health and a confident, beautiful smile.
Call to Action
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