Dental Terminology
Cosmetic Dentistry:
Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells typically made of porcelain or composite resin. They are designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can address a range of cosmetic issues such as discoloration, chipped or worn teeth, uneven spacing, and minor misalignment. The procedure involves removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth’s surface to accommodate the veneer and achieve a natural-looking result.
Gum Contouring: Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that aims to reshape the gum line for aesthetic purposes. It involves removing excess gum tissue to create a more balanced and proportionate appearance. Gum contouring is often recommended for individuals with a “gummy smile” where a significant portion of gum tissue is visible when they smile.
Invisalign: Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. These custom-made aligners are virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for individuals who prefer a more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. The aligners are replaced every few weeks to progressively shift the teeth into the desired position. Invisalign treatment offers improved comfort and convenience compared to traditional braces, as the aligners can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening is a dental procedure performed to lighten the colour of natural teeth, removing stains and discoloration. It can be achieved through various methods, including in-office professional bleaching treatments and at-home whitening kits prescribed by a dentist. Teeth whitening is an effective way to enhance the appearance of teeth that have been stained by factors such as ageing, tobacco use, consumption of certain foods and drinks, and poor oral hygiene. The procedure typically involves the application of a bleaching agent to the teeth, which breaks down stains and brightens the tooth enamel.
Diagnostic And Imaging:
Digital X-Rays: Digital X-rays are advanced imaging techniques used in dentistry to capture detailed images of the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. They offer several advantages over traditional film-based X-rays, including reduced radiation exposure, faster image processing, enhanced image quality, and the ability to view and manipulate the images on a computer screen. Digital X-rays aid in the diagnosis and treatment planning of various dental conditions, such as tooth decay, infections, bone loss, and abnormalities in tooth development.
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology: Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology is a specialised field of dentistry that focuses on the use of imaging techniques for diagnosing and managing diseases and conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, and related structures. Oral and maxillofacial radiologists are trained to interpret various imaging modalities, including X-rays, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. They play a crucial role in detecting and evaluating oral and maxillofacial pathologies, planning treatments such as dental implant placement, orthodontics, and oral surgery, as well as collaborating with other dental specialists to provide comprehensive care.
Emergency Dentistry:
Dental Emergency: A dental emergency refers to an urgent dental situation that requires immediate attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and save teeth or oral structures. Examples of dental emergencies include severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a broken or fractured tooth, severe gum bleeding, dental abscesses, oral infections, and trauma to the teeth, jaws, or soft tissues of the mouth. Prompt evaluation and treatment by a dentist or emergency dental professional are crucial to prevent complications and ensure optimal oral health outcomes.
General Dentistry:
Dentigerous cyst: A dentigerous cyst is a cystic fluid-filled sac that forms around the crown of an unerupted or partially erupted tooth. It develops as a result of fluid accumulation between the tooth and its surrounding tissue, often due to the incomplete eruption process. Dentigerous cysts typically appear as a painless swelling and are commonly associated with impacted or delayed eruption of permanent teeth, particularly wisdom teeth. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the cyst to prevent potential complications such as infection, bone resorption, and damage to adjacent teeth.
Endodontics: Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the dental pulp and root canal system. The most common procedure associated with endodontics is root canal treatment. This involves removing the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canal, and filling it with a biocompatible material. Endodontic treatment aims to save the natural tooth, alleviate pain, and restore its function through careful management of infections, inflammation, and damage to the pulp.
Hypodontia: Hypodontia refers to a condition where a person has congenitally missing teeth. It is characterised by the absence of one or more permanent teeth that fail to develop. Hypodontia can affect a single tooth or multiple teeth and is usually a result of genetic or hereditary factors. The missing teeth may be primary (baby teeth) or permanent (adult teeth). Treatment options for hypodontia depend on the specific case and may involve orthodontic management, dental prosthetics (such as dentures or bridges), or dental implants to replace the missing teeth and restore proper function and aesthetics.
Malocclusion: Malocclusion is a term used to describe the misalignment or improper positioning of the teeth and jaws. It can manifest in various ways, such as crowded or crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, or open bites. Malocclusion can be the result of genetic factors, abnormal jaw development, habits (such as thumb sucking), or trauma. In addition to aesthetic concerns, malocclusion can lead to difficulties in biting, chewing, speech problems, and may contribute to oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment is often recommended to correct malocclusion and improve overall oral health and function.
Periodontics: Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases. Periodontal diseases range from mild gingivitis (gum inflammation) to more severe conditions like periodontitis, which involves the infection and inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists specialise in managing these conditions through procedures such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), gum grafting, periodontal surgery, and dental implant placement. They also provide ongoing periodontal maintenance to prevent the progression of gum diseases and maintain oral health.
Subgingival: Subgingival refers to the area below the gum line, specifically the portion of the tooth or dental restoration that is situated beneath the gums. Subgingival plaque and tartar buildup can contribute to periodontal diseases, as they provide a favourable environment for bacterial growth and infection. Dental professionals often perform subgingival scaling and root planing to remove these deposits and promote gum health. Subgingival restorations, such as dental crowns or dental implants, are designed to fit snugly beneath the gums to provide stability and natural-looking results.
Torus: A torus is a bony growth or prominence that may develop in the oral cavity. It commonly occurs on the roof of the mouth (torus palatinus) or along the inner side of the lower jaw (torus mandibularis). Tori are typically benign and asymptomatic, but their presence can vary in size and shape. In some cases, they may interfere with speech, swallowing, or denture fitting. Surgical intervention is usually not necessary unless there are functional or esthetic concerns associated with the torus.
Xerostomia: Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a condition characterised by reduced saliva production or a feeling of oral dryness. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by lubricating the oral tissues, aiding in digestion, neutralising acids, and preventing tooth decay. Xerostomia can result from various factors, including certain medications, medical conditions (such as Sjögren’s syndrome), radiation therapy, or lifestyle habits. It can lead to discomfort, difficulty in speaking and swallowing, altered taste, and an increased risk of dental cavities and oral infections. Management of xerostomia typically involves addressing the underlying cause, promoting adequate hydration, saliva substitutes, and lifestyle modifications to alleviate symptoms and maintain oral health.
Restorative Dentistry:
Dental Crowns: Dental crowns, also known as caps, are tooth-shaped restorations that are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are custom-made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. They cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, providing protection and reinforcement for weakened or compromised teeth. Dental crowns can improve the functionality and aesthetics of teeth that have undergone significant decay, fractures, root canal treatment, or extensive dental restorations.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They serve as artificial tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants integrate with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration, ensuring a strong and long-lasting tooth replacement option. Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including improved chewing ability, natural appearance, preservation of jawbone structure, and enhanced self-confidence.
Root Canal Treatment: Root canal treatment, also referred to as endodontic treatment, is a procedure used to treat and save a tooth that is infected, decayed, or injured. It involves the removal of the infected or damaged dental pulp, which is the soft tissue located within the tooth’s root canals. The canals are then thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection. Root canal treatment alleviates tooth pain, eliminates infection, and preserves the natural tooth structure, thus avoiding the need for extraction. After the procedure, a dental crown is often placed to protect and restore the tooth’s function and appearance.