Dental Terminology
A Glossary of Common Dental Terms
Understanding dental terminology can help you feel more comfortable during your appointments and better understand your treatment options. Here are some common terms you may encounter.
Amalgam
A silver-colored filling material made from a mixture of metals.
Bicuspid
A premolar tooth with two cusps, located between the canine and molar teeth.
Composite
A tooth-colored filling material made of resin and glass particles.
Crown
A cap that covers and protects a damaged tooth, restoring its shape and function.
Dentin
The hard, dense tissue forming the bulk of a tooth beneath the enamel.
Enamel
The hard, white outer layer of the tooth — the hardest substance in the body.
Endodontics
The branch of dentistry dealing with diseases of the tooth pulp (root canal treatment).
Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums, the earliest stage of gum disease.
Implant
A titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth.
Malocclusion
Misalignment of the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is closed.
Occlusion
The way the upper and lower teeth fit together when you bite.
Periodontal
Relating to the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth (gums and bone).
Plaque
A sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth.
Prophylaxis
A professional dental cleaning to prevent disease.
Pulp
The soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels.
Root Canal
Treatment to remove infected pulp from inside a tooth and seal it.
Tartar (Calculus)
Hardened plaque that can only be removed by professional cleaning.
Veneer
A thin shell of porcelain or composite bonded to the front of a tooth.
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