Abbey Dental Practice

Abscess

It originates from a bacterial infection grown in the soft pulp of the tooth. Periodontal abscess begins in the supporting bone and tissue structure of the tooth.
Apart from dental treatment, to ease that pain take 2 Solpadeine tablets and rinse your mouth with hot salted water.

Accidents

These injuries may include a fracture to a portion of the crown, of the tooth or the root. The fractured enamel can damage the sensitive yellow tissue known as the dentine or the pulp in the middle of the tooth which is made of nerves and blood vessels. It can also affect the periodontal ligament which comprises of tissues that hold the tooth in place, causing the tooth to loosen or knock-off its socket completely.

Accreditation

An accredited dental practice proves that proper practice management controls are in place and quality management systems and necessary requirements are fulfilled.

Acrylic

A material that is manufactured by acrylic acid which has the characteristics of plastic or synthetic resin; it is utilized to build dentures and other dental appliances.

Adrenaline

A substance produced by the Adrenal glands. It increases blood pressure, the heart rate and nervous activity. Local anaesthetics contain adrenaline in very small quantities. Inform your dentist if you have any allergies or sensitivities.

Aerodontalgia

When you reach high-altitudes especially on a flight, you might experience a toothache. This occurs due to the expansion of gas within the pulp chamber in a tooth. This tooth is either dead or infected and needs treatment.

Aesthetic Dentistry

Improving the position, colour, shape and symmetry of the teeth and jaws are classified under this technique. It improves the appearance and function of the teeth and mouth. Orthodontic treatment too falls under this classification.

Alveolus

The bony part of the jaw bears the teeth and their supporting attachment is known as Alveolus.

Amalgam

A form of plastic material used for tooth filling made out of finely powdered silver, a little bit of copper and mercury. Often referred to a silver amalgam filling it is durable and lasts long.

Anaesthetic

Injection (local) or cream (topical), administered to numb the treatment area of the patient to reduce pain. General anaesthesia is used to cause unconsciousness to a patient.

Analgesia

A substance, once applied would dull or remove the sensation of pain.

Anaphylactic shock

Due to the collapse of the circulatory system the blood pressure can rapidly drop causing the patient to be unconscious. Immediate treatment is required as the condition can turn fatal.

Anchylosis

In this condition the tooth attachment disappears and the root bonds to the jawbone which makes the tooth difficult to extract. It is likely to associate with dead or root treated tooth.

Anodontia

This is a rare genetic condition causing the teeth to fail to develop. This can occur as complete absence of teeth or partial absence of teeth known as Anodontia. Also there is a hereditary condition known as upper lateral incisors, which is very common.

Antibiotics

A drug prescribed to assist in creating anti bacteria to fight infections. Keep in mind this cannot be used for viruses, worm or fungi.

Antiseptic

A chemical applied on living tissues to destroy germs and prevents infections from spreading.

Apex

This is the tip of the root of the tooth. The surgery of this part is known as apicectomy or root re-section. It is an important part of the tooth which keeps the tooth alive with the nerves which run into the opening of the root canal.

Articulation

The space between the upper and lower teeth (see occlusion)

Articulator

An instrument used to correct the relationship between the jaw and the dentures.

Attrition

Occurs as a normal part of the ageing process in which the biting surfaces of the teeth wear-off.

Autoclave

Equipment which uses superheated steam to sterilise instruments.

Abrasion

Due to incorrect tooth brushing and the use of abrasive toothpaste the tooth can wear-off and the gum closest to the root can be damaged. Seek treatment from a dentist and could also use Sensodyne as a remedy.

Bacteraemia

A fever caused by the presence of bacteria in the blood stream. Particularly concerns patient with heart conditions or sufferers of rheumatic fever. Antibiotics are given to these types of patients to prevent or control the condition during dental procedures.

Bad Breath (halitosis)

Often arises due to poor oral hygiene. Regular brushing of teeth, flossing and visiting your dentists for regular check-ups can eliminate bad breath.

Baking Soda-Bicarbonate of Soda

Generally used in toothpaste as it has a cleaning effect and can also deodorise the odour, leaving your mouth and gums fresh and healthy. It is also used as a healing agent; mix with a little table salt and brush gently into the gums to repair damaged tissues.

Bands

A stainless steel retaining device bonded to teeth. This is used to connect springs and hooks to adjust symmetry of the teeth.

Bell's palsy

Inflammation of the facial nerve paralyses the facial muscle. Affects one side of the face and is noticeable if the patient tries to smile or blink the eyelids. This can be aggravated if the muscle is exposed to continuous chill like driving the car with an open window. Seek medical assistance at the beginning itself as it would take 4 – 6 weeks to heal even after using anti-inflammatory agents.

Bicuspid

Also known as the premolar teeth located between the canine and molar teeth

Bifurcation (biology)

Nerve which divides into two or more roots at the connecting area of nerve trunks, blood vessels and the molar teeth.

Biopsy

A piece of soft or hard tissue extracted to be examined under a microscope. Local anaesthetic is administered before the tissue removal and sent to be studied by a histologist or pathologist to diagnose and abnormalities.

Bite wings

The x-ray film is held by a small tab for the patient to bite, so that the teeth could be x-rayed.

Bleaching

A method used to lighten the colour of teeth. This can be carried out externally or internally.

Block injection

The injected anaesthetic creates partial numbness of the lower jaw, teeth, part of the tongue and the lower lip.

Bonding

The procedure involves applying composite resins to fix fractured, cracked or chipped teeth. It is also used on stained teeth or teeth that are loose and is extensively used orthodontic treatment to attach bands and springs to change position of teeth.

Braces

Appliance fitted to the teeth to improve position and alignment. Known as orthodontic appliances they are fixed to the teeth or come as removable.

Bridge

This device spans the gap left by lost tooth and comes in two types; Conventional Bridge attaches the false tooth to a crown on one or both sides of the gap and Adhesive Bridge attaches the false tooth to a wing of metal and then glued to the adjoining tooth.

Bruxism

Commonly known as teeth grinding is often caused by stress and usually occurs involuntarily in sleep. A flexible mouth guard should be worn before going to sleep to prevent from the teeth damaging.

Buccal

The surface of the back teeth which lies in contact with the inner cheek (the buccinators muscle)

Calculus

The calcium salt deposit produced by saliva creates hardened plaque and is known as Calculus. The buildup of calculus should be controlled by scaling the teeth or it may lead to gingivitis and the breaking of the tooth attachment.

Canal

Usually applies to the narrow space within the root of a tooth. It contains the blood vessels, nerves and tissues i.e. the root canal.

Cancer of the Mouth

It is the fifth most common form of cancer in men and the seventh most common cancer in women. Smoking and alcohol consumption are the main factors that contributes for the cancer of the mouth. Regular examination could reduce the risk of this cancer. If you get an ulcer in your mouth and is present for more than a few days immediately consult a dental surgeon.

Candida

A fungal infection caused by oral thrush, denture stomatitis and angular chelitis. It does not show symptoms and is present even in healthy people.

Canine (cuspids)

The eye-tooth in the upper jaw named after its development just beneath the floor of the eye socket.

Caries

Destructed tooth substance leading to cavities.

Cement

Made of zinc oxide and Eugenol or similar substances is used for temporary fillings and when further treatment is required to a tooth. A stronger type is used to fix crowns and bridges.

Cementum

A bony substance covers the root of the tooth and is a part of the tooth attachment to the jaw bone. Area can be exposed due to gum recede and the presence of nerve fibers.

Centrals

The two upper and two lower teeth in the centre of your mouth also known as the central incisors.

Chipped Teeth

Teeth can be chipped due to trauma, underlying tooth decay, root canal treatment, congenital abnormality of bruxism.

Chronic

The most common chronic dental conditions are associated with gum disease. To avoid this regular dental visits are essential.

Cold Sores

Caused by the virus herpes simplex (HSV), it is similar to the virus that causes chicken pox. As a result you may get blisters on the lip, mainly on the corner of the lip.

Composites

Composites are tooth coloured resin filling materials. They are used as an alternative when an amalgam filling is not cosmetically acceptable.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Crowns, veneers and tooth whitening fall under this classification and is about improving the appearance of teeth.

Cross bite

The upper teeth meet inside the lower teeth either on one or both sides of the mouth. It may be possible to correct a crossed bite with orthodontic treatment.

Crowns

The part of a natural tooth which is exposed in the mouth is called the crown and is covered in enamel. The term is also used to refer to an artificial covering that is made from metal [e.g. gold], or porcelain, to restore or conserve a damaged tooth.

Cuspid

These are the pointed single teeth that are set at the corner of the mouth behind the lateral incisors. Cuspids are also known as canines.

Cyst

A tissue sac filled with fluid. If left untreated it will gradually enlarge and cause the surrounding bone to resort. Cysts are most frequently found at the pointed bottom [apex] of a dead or infected tooth. They are rarely associated with any symptoms in their early stages but can become infected and painful.

Deciduous Teeth [primary, temporary, milk or baby teeth]

The deciduous teeth start shedding from the age of 5 years or so [slightly earlier in girls] with the loss of the lower central incisors. The replacement process finishes when the last deciduous molar is lost by about 12-13 years of age.

Dental Public Health

This is a specialised area with a small number of people working either in community dental services or the hospital services.

Dentifrice

A compound formulated to clean the teeth e.g. Toothpastes and tooth powders.

Dentine

It is the calcified part at the base of the enamel surrounding the pulp chamber and root canals. Dentine can regenerate when it has been damaged but this is a very slow process.

Dentistry

The industry involved in the care and treatment of the tooth and its associated areas.

Denture

A device or appliance [prosthesis] (complete or partial) made to replace natural teeth.

Denturist

Dentures are manufactured and fitted by them without the assistance of a dentist.

Diastema

Most commonly used to describe a gap between the upper two central incisors when the lip attachment (fraenum) causes a separation of these teeth. It can sometimes be as much as 2-3mm. Surgery together with orthodontic treatment can treat the condition.

Disclosing Agent

Tablet or liquid stains plaque to identify deposits and make tooth cleaning more efficient.

Distal

The surface of a tooth situated furthest from the mid-line. The dentist will use the expression to notify on the charting the exact site of a filling or a cavity.

DMF

The letters are used as a dental index to indicate the dental health of a population (e.g. D=decayed, M=missing and F=filled).

Dressing

A temporary filling material used to help relieve toothache. The material often contains eugenol and zinc oxide which is inserted into the tooth as a paste and then gradually hardens over 24 hours or so.

Drill

The dental hand-piece used by a dentist to prepare teeth for treatment.

Dry Mouth

Dry Mouth” [Xerostomia] is associated with a reduced output or absence of saliva, producing dryness of the mouth.

Dry Socket

The socket becomes infected and will begin to become very painful. A bad taste and foul smell will be present. It is important to return to your dentist for treatment without delay.

Decay [dental caries]

Due to an acid attack the substance in tooth is chemically destructed. Addition of fluoride will slow or eliminate the process.

Edentate

No teeth. Babies are born edentulous.

Edge to Edge

A fault in the contact of the upper and lower front teeth. Normally the upper front teeth overlap the lower ones when biting together normally.

Emergency cover

Out of hours emergency cover is not easy to find and some practices will only cater for their own registered patients.

Enamel

Enamel is the hard glossy natural protective coating that covers the crown of a tooth. There are no living cells present and it is therefore insensitive.

Endodontics

Field specialising on preserving diseased or damaged teeth. Endodontic treatment or root canal therapy (RCT) carried out by specialists can save teeth which, until recently, would have been extracted.

Epidemiology

Study about disease incidence in a population. Dental decay is the most common disease in the U.K.

Erosion

Due to the exposure of acids the tooth can lose its substances. This action is irreversible.

Etching

Applying acid to the tooth surface to clean and roughen it to enhance the adhesion of tooth attachments.

Extraction

Under the administration of local anaesthesia a tooth is removed.

Face Bow

An instrument used to transfer facial recordings and measurements to an articulator to give correct jaw relationships.

Fauces

It is the pillars of tissue and muscle in the side of the pharynx. It demarcates the region of the tonsils. The areas can be seen at the back of the throat.

Fibrin

An insoluble protein formed during the clotting process that traps and enmeshes the red blood corpuscles to stop the flow of blood. A deficiency is found in haemophiliacs.

Fillings

Materials placed in the teeth to replace lost tooth substance. Various materials are used as fillings.

Fissure

This area is vulnerable to decay as it is difficult to clean. Sealants are used to prevent the area becoming decayed.

Fistula

A permanent hole or opening in tissue through which fluid can drain. The most common type of fistula can occur during the extraction of an upper molar where the roots are very close to the sinuses. If this is not treated, the tissues can heal and leave an opening through which food can leak into the nasal area.

Floss and Flossing

A thread used to clean between teeth as a part of good oral hygiene practice.

Fluoride

A natural chemical improves the tooth’s resistance to decay.

Fluorosis

Occur due to excessive exposure to fluoride. The enamel becomes discoloured (often orange or brown patches) and mottled. In extreme cases it can also be pitted.

Fraenum

A piece of fleshy mucous tissue that is associated with the lip attachment.

Frenulum

The tissue joins the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Occasionally this piece of tissue may have to be removed if it restricts the movement of the tongue (tongue-tie).

Galvanic shock

Silver paper or a fork coming into contact with an amalgam filling may cause an electric "shock" or a metallic taste. In severe cases, the filling may have to be replaced with a "white" non-metallic restoration.

Gaps

Space created between teeth naturally or through tooth removal.

General Anaesthetic

Anaesthesia is injected or breathed in by patient to get unconscious before surgery.

Geographic Tongue

The top surface of the tongue is affected and appears to have white and red patches with wavy outlines.

Germination

A tooth germ or follicle which splits or divides during its development which can give rise to the formation of an "identical twin" or supplemental tooth. This may be related to a genetic or inherited defect.

Gerodontics

Study on the care of dentistry for elders.

Gingivitis - Inflammation of the Gums

Gums that are red and swollen probably have gum disease or gingivitis. One of the commonest signs is the gums bleeding after brushing and/or flossing.

Glass Ionomer

Tooth coloured filling material made from glass. It can be used in small shallow cavities but it generally has poor strength.

Glossitis

Tongue inflammation.

Gnathic

Jaw and teeth related.

Granuloma

An area of tissue associated with an infection.

Gums

It is the area of mucous membrane which surrounds the teeth.

Holistic Dentistry

Treating conditions using a “whole body” approach.

Hydrophilic

Having an affinity with water.

Hygienist

A dentist specialising to maintaining good oral hygiene in the patients dental fitness and preventive dentistry.

Hygroscopic

Moisture absorbing.

Hyoid

A horseshoe shaped bone that lies between the thyroid cartilage and the base of the tongue.

Hypersensitive

Excessive or exaggerated reaction to a stimulus such as temperature (hot or cold).

Hyperventilation

Breathing at an abnormally high rate which can induce unconsciousness.

Hypocalcification

This can occur if the patient suffers a serious illness whilst the tooth germ is developing leaving a defective line on the surface of the tooth.

Hypodontia

A condition in which some of the tooth germs are absent and the normal number of teeth fail to develop.

Imbricate

The overlapping of adjacent teeth.

Immediate Denture

A temporary denture fitted immediately after teeth have been extracted.

Immediate Root Filling

Root canal treatment carried out and completed at one visit following the removal of the pulp tissues.

Immunise

To introduce vaccines encourage production of antibodies. It gives resistance to diseases or illnesses.

Impacted Tooth

A tooth that is mal-positioned so that it is growing sideways into another tooth or bone.

Implants (osseointegration)

The insertion of titanium posts into the jaw bone onto which crowns are fixed.

Impression

A negative or mould of a tooth or teeth that is taken in order to make an accurate replica or die in a durable material on which to makes a prosthesis (denture, crown, bridge etc.). The impression materials most commonly used are made from alginate.

Incisor

The teeth at the front of the mouth are known as the central and lateral incisors. They cut food. There are eight in each of the deciduous and permanent sets of teeth.

Indurate

The condition is associated with cancerous growths and lesions where the tissues may become tightly bound and rigid.

Inlays and Onlays

When cavities become too large and an ordinary filling is not strong enough to cope with the required biting forces the dentist will need to have stronger fillings made in the laboratory.
Inlay - fits inside the tooth
Onlay - fits over the tooth
They are made of various substances e.g. gold, porcelain, etc and last for about 10 to 15 years. They are cemented or bonded to the tooth.

Insurance

Cover for dental costs by regular payments.

Ischaemia

Lack of blood supply to the tissues which become whitened or blanched.

Jacket Crown

A covering made of porcelain, gold, or resin used to restore and covering the whole of the tooth.

Jaw

The bone of the facial skeleton. Upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) provides support for the tooth attachments.

Joint

The area or junction of bones at which movement can take place. The ends of the bones are covered in cartilage and bathed in a fluid that lubricates the surfaces. The temporo mandibular joint or "jaw joint" is where the mandible joins the base of the skull just in front of the ear.

Jugular

Relating to the neck or throat.

Kiln

A furnace used in dentistry to process ceramic materials and produce crowns and inlays.

Labial

The surface nearest or adjoining the lips (the labialis muscles).

Lactic acid

A product weakens the surface enamel to cause decay. It is a result of the metabolism of carbohydrate.

Lactobacillus

Bacteria actively involved in the decay process breaking down carbohydrates to form acid which attacks the tooth enamel.

Larynx

It is at the top of the windpipe [trachea] and is responsible for producing the sounds that enable us to speak.

Leucocytes

White blood cells which fights infection.

Leukaemia

A malignant blood condition where the white cells fail to develop properly. The gums become swollen, very inflamed and discoloured with frequent episodes of spontaneous bleeding.

Leukoplakia

A surface thickening of the mucous membranes which has a white appearance and occurs in patches. It is often associated with smoking and can be a pre-cancerous condition.

Lichen Planus

It is an inflammatory condition that causes soreness, sensitivity and discomfort. It is commonly seen as a network of fine white lines on the inside of the cheeks, often on a reddish background. Occasionally the gums can be affected, both with white patches and, sometimes, shiny red sore-looking gums.

Ligature

Thread usually made of silk or cotton used to tie off blood vessels or stitch tissues together. It is removed when healing is well advanced.

Lignocaine

A local anaesthetic commonly used in dentistry and often combined with 2% adrenaline to prolong the effect by reducing the blood flow.

Lingual

The surfaces of the teeth or tissues nearest to the tongue.

Lockjaw

Spasm of the jaw muscles caused by tetanus toxins.

Lymphocyte

A white blood cell that actively destroys bacteria that infects the blood stream.

Malignant

The random and undifferentiated growth of tissues often associated with cancerous tumours(see cancer of the mouth).

Mandible

The lower jaw attached to the base of the skull through the temporo-mandibular joint.

Masseter muscle

The muscles on either side of the mandible provide exceptionally strong biting and chewing forces.

Mastication

Act of chewing and grinding food. This is the start of the digestive process.

Maxilla

The upper jaw and bone structure that supports all the upper teeth.

Mercury

A base metal used in amalgam fillings.

Mesial

The surface of a tooth nearest to the mid-line.

Molar

Tooth at the back of the mouth that is used for crushing and grinding.

Mottling

A term used to describe the appearance of teeth that have been affected by excessive exposure to fluoride during their development (see fluorosis).

Mouth Guard

A device made from a flexible material designed to cover the upper teeth and protect against the effects of a blow to the face. A properly designed mouth guard will also minimise the damage to the soft tissues.

Mouth Rinse

There are different types including fluoride rinse to protect against tooth decay, general purpose daily rinse to supplement the brushing routine and reduce bacterial activity, and specialist rinses for short term use to help control a chronic gum condition.

Mouth Ulcers

A painful area affecting the soft parts of the inside of the mouth: the cheeks, lips and tongue.

Mouthwash

The coloured liquid which is used to rinse away debris from the mouth following dental treatment. It contains thymol, sodium bicarbonate and a colouring agent.

Necrosis

The process that destroys living tissues e.g. gangrene .If the blood supply is cut off from an area of the body or an organ, tissues will become necrotic.

Neoplasm

May be slow or fast growing tissue either benign or malignant.

Neuralgia

Very severe facial pain can be caused by trigeminal neuralgia which affects the face. It can be severely debilitating, sometimes requiring surgery to cut the nerve supply.

Nutrition

The patients input of food and drink. The quality and type has a significant effect on general and dental health.

Occlusion

Treatment to improve the action of the teeth’s chewing capability. Malocclusion (incorrect bite) can lead to serious temporo-mandibular joint problems and pain.

Odontoblast

A specialised cell that is responsible for laying down the calcified substance called dentine that surrounds and protects the pulp tissues.

Odontome

An abnormal growth of calcified dental tissues made up of dentine and enamel.

Oedema

The leaking of fluid [plasma] into the tissues which creates a swelling either caused by an obstruction of a blood vessel or increased cellular permeability.

Oncology

The study of growths and tumours.

Oral

Of the mouth [derived from Latin].

Oral Hygiene

The process of keeping teeth and gums clean and free from decay.

Oral Medicine

The scientific discipline concentrating on diseases of the mouth.

Oral Surgery

Any operation which involves the soft tissues of the mouth.

Orthodontics

The dental process to straighten teeth or aligns teeth. [Correction of malocclusion].

Osteoblast

Specialised cell that forms bone.

Osteoclast

Specialised cell that breaks down bone or calcified tissues. These cells are very active during the exfoliation stages of a deciduous tooth when the roots are being absorbed.

Paedodontics

The specialised study of children’s dentistry.

Palatal

The surfaces of the teeth adjoining the palate.

Palmer's Notation

A form of dental shorthand used to describe individual teeth.

Panoral

A term often used to describe a panoramic radiograph of the teeth and jaws.

Periodontal Disease

The disease of the tissues around the tooth.

Periodontium

The tooth supporting structure allows for microscopic movements of the teeth to ensure that mechanical stresses are evenly distributed.

Periodontology

In simple terms ‘gum conditions’ but in reality another most complex dental speciality.

Pierced Tongue

The fashion of piercing the tongue with decorative jewellery.

Plaque

A film of bacteria and food residue that collects on the surfaces of the teeth.

Pocket

The area around the neck of the tooth that forms as a result of the gum tissue becoming detached. Very deep pockets can develop which harbour bacteria and threaten the whole tooth attachment (periodontium) resulting in loosening and tooth loss.

Posterior Teeth

These are the teeth in the back of your mouth.

Pregnancy

Teeth have to withstand very heavy demands during pregnancy. In the absence of excellent oral hygiene measures this can have a devastating effect on the teeth. A good balanced diet taken at regular mealtimes with plenty of calcium, vitamins and minerals are essential during pregnancy for both mother and developing child.

It is important to see a dentist at the beginning of the pregnancy, about two months prior to delivery and again when the baby is about three months old.

Premolars

The bicuspids (two cusped) teeth set behind the canines and in front of the molars.

Prophylaxis

The removal of plaque and surface stains with a paste carried on a rotating cup shaped polishing brush.

Prosthesis

Prosthesis - an artificial replacement of missing teeth [e.g. a denture or a bridge] in the mouth. A dental prosthesis can be removable (denture) or fixed (crown or bridge).

Prosthetics or Prosthodontics

The provision of artificial or false appliances which have been carefully designed to fit the hard or soft tissues of the mouth.

Fixed prostheses can be used to replace the missing teeth and take the form of crowns or bridges. Removable prostheses are worn by those who have lost all of their teeth (complete dentures) some of their teeth (partial dentures) or by children to straighten their teeth (orthodontic appliances).

Prosthodontics

The term applied to those who specialise in the provision of fixed or removable prosthetic (prosthodontic) appliances to the teeth.

Pulp

The soft inner structure of a tooth, consisting of nerve and blood vessels. It is contained in the pulp chamber which is the very inner part of your tooth containing nerve cells and blood vessels [also known as the pulp canal].

Quadrants

These are the four parts of your mouth - the upper left, the upper right, the lower left, and the lower right. The quadrant is the basis for charting and tooth recognition.

Qualifications

The General Dental Council maintains a Register of all those who can legally practice dentistry in the UK. To be licensed to practice dentistry requires a qualification from a recognised body. Examples include the Royal College of Surgeons (a licence in dental surgery - LDS) or a University Degree (bachelor of dental surgery - BDS).

Higher or post graduate qualifications can be taken in order to be recognised as a specialist.

Quinsy

An abscess of the tonsils making it very difficult to swallow. It is extremely painful and is accompanied by a high temperature. Responds quickly to antibiotics.

Radiation

The transmission of energy used to destroy cancerous growths and known as deep x-ray therapy (DXT).

Radiographs

Sensitive films that give a permanent record of relative tissue densities when they are exposed to x-ray radiation. They are used to identify any abnormalities in the teeth and gums that may need treatment.

Radiolucent

An area on an X-ray which is darker and indicates an area of lower tissue density allowing the passage of radiation.

Recession

The shrinkage of the gum tissues that exposes more of the root surface of the tooth.

Referred pain

A sensation of pain that occurs in an area which is different from the area causing the problem.

Relative Analgesia

A mixture of nitrous oxide ["laughing gas"] and air is still used frequently as a very safe method of reducing pain. The patient remains in a cooperative state of consciousness and the effects wear off very quickly.

Reline

The dentist may use temporary soft liners to gain better stability or suction to re-base the denture to improve its hold.

Residual ridge

The bone structure remaining following the loss or extraction of teeth. The lower (mandibular) ridge tends to suffer more from residual bone loss than the upper. Making it difficult to stabilise a lower denture.

Restorative Dentistry

The process of returning the tooth and its surroundings to its previous condition after damage or loss has occurred.

Retromolar Pad

The tissue behind the last molar teeth.

Root

The root is the part of a tooth which is attached by a membrane to and embedded in the jaw bone (alveolus).

Root Canal

The chamber in the middle of a tooth that contains the nerve [pulp].

Saliva

The fluid which contains enzymes that is formed by glands in the mouth. The saliva helps to lubricate the mouth whilst the enzymes are an important part of digestion.

Sealants

A plastic coating which, when applied to the grooves and pits on the biting surfaces of children’ teeth, can protect them from decay.

Secondary Teeth

The permanent teeth that replace the deciduous (primary) dentition.

Sedation

The use of safe and effective drugs ensures that the patient is fully conscious, but at the same time relaxed and co-operative.

Sensitivity [dentine sensitivity]

The painful sensation that occurs when dentine is exposed by caries, fracture of the enamel, or recession of the gums.

Sinus

An opening into a tract of tissue which is linked to the oral cavity associated with an infected tooth root. Also a term used in association with the major air cavities in the maxilla which can become infected and give rise to sinusitis.

Sinusitis

An infection of the cavities in the maxilla situated behind the cheek-bone. The symptoms can frequently give rise to toothache in the upper premolar and molar regions. Fluid can build up and the pain can be made worse by sudden movement of the head.

Snoring

It is caused by a temporary blockage of the airways by the soft tissues at the back of the throat. More modern methods involve the fitting of appliances in the mouth to prevent the soft tissues obstructing the airway.

In exceptional circumstances surgery may be required. There are a number of dental surgeons who specialise in treating snorers.

Specialised services

Dentists who offer services in addition to those connected with general dental practice.

Specialist

The General Dental Council maintains a Register of dental surgeons who are qualified to practice dentistry in the UK. In addition it has lists of specialists who have obtained certification in particular areas of dentistry which recognises their higher level of knowledge, experience and qualification.

Stomatitis

Inflammation of the tissues of the mouth. It is particularly common in denture wearers where food debris and bacteria can quickly set up an inflammatory condition.

Denture-induced stomatitis is a condition caused by candida, a fungus infection. It is manifested as redness in the gum covered by a denture, often without soreness. Persistent cracking or soreness at the corners of the mouth (angular chelitis) may also be a sign of oral candida infection.

Supernumerary

A supernumerary tooth does not resemble the morphology of another in the dental arch and will have developed from an aberrant tooth germ. An additional tooth which resembles the morphology of another is called a supplemental tooth.

Suppuration

The presence of pus as a result of a spreading infection.

Surgical Dentistry

Radical treatment of dental problems e.g. infected root tip.

Teething [see Milk Teeth]

The eruption of the milk teeth is usually accompanied by excessive salivation and a redness of the cheeks. This is particularly noticeable when the molar teeth appear. Babies will tend to push things into their mouths to gnaw upon in an attempt to relieve the soreness. It is rare that the front teeth give much of a problem but the first molar teeth which appear at about twelve months can give a problem. Eating hard rusks can help the eruption process.

The second deciduous molars will finally complete the temporary set of teeth at about the second birthday. These larger teeth frequently give rise to listlessness, sometimes loss of sleep and can be accompanied by a fever. These symptoms can last for a week or so with the lower teeth erupting first. These symptoms may reoccur some weeks later as the upper teeth follow. Disprol or Calpol, and the local application of Anbesol will often help relieve the symptoms of teething.

Temporomandibular Joint

The complex hinge joint which connects the mandible with the base of the skull just in front of the ear.

Temporomandibular joint disorders (known as TMJ disorders or TMD) are the most common condition affecting the jaw joint. TMD is also known as facial arthromyalgia, and literally means face, joint and muscle pain.

Tetanus

An infectious disease spread by the tetanus bacillus which causes severe muscular spasm and lockjaw. Can be contracted through a cut or wound exposed to dirt or soil. Vaccination can protect from the disease.

Tetracycline

A broad spectrum antibiotic. Care must be taken with the administration of Tetracycline in children as it can lead to unsightly mottling or yellow staining of the tooth.

Thumb Sucking

Babies can be born sucking a thumb or a finger! X-rays sometimes show the developing child sucking a thumb whilst still in the womb. It is quite normal for infants to suck a thumb or a finger and only becomes a problem if the habit is allowed to become persistent from about 2 years of age.

Titanium

A light metal with unique bone bonding properties used to design implants to replace natural teeth and to anchor bridges and dentures in place.

Toothache

The discomfort [pain] caused by changes in the health of teeth. The best advice is to go and visit a dentist as soon as possible.

Toothbrushes

An aid to keeping teeth and gums clean may be manual or electric powered.

Toothpaste

A thick creamy material used, in combination with a toothbrush to assist in tooth cleaning. There are three main categories of toothpaste , family, children and specialist. Both fluoride and non-fluoride tooth pastes are available in adult and children’ formulae.

Topical

An agent applied on the surface e.g. a topical anaesthetic applied to the mucous membranes; or fluoride applied to the enamel surfaces.

Torus

A bony protuberance or swelling sometimes found in the centre of the palate (torus palatinus) or on the inside of the lower jaw beneath the tongue in the region of the pre-molars (torus mandibularis).

Transplantation

The removal of a tooth or tooth germ and insertion into another part of the jaw.

Trigeminal Neuralgia [also known as tic douloureux]

A rare facial pain that causes a sudden, brief but severe electric shock-like or stabbing pain on one side of the face. It tends to be more common in women than in men and usually affects people aged 50 and over.

Trismus

Spasm of the jaw muscles which closes the teeth tightly together (lockjaw). It occurs in tetanus and in people who suffer from epilepsy. It may also arise as a result of a severe infection affecting the jaw muscles e.g. an impacted wisdom tooth.

Ultrasonic

Very high frequency sound waves or vibrations used in dentistry to power the tips of instruments to dislodge surface accumulations of calculus or tartar.

Unilateral

On one side of the mouth only.

Urea

An organic compound that used to be used in toothpastes to reduce caries activity.

Urticaria

A rash or inflammation of the skin which tends to be persistent or recurrent.

Uvula

The soft pendulous piece of tissue that hangs from the centre of the soft palate at the back of the throat.

Valium

A tranquilliser frequently used to allay anxiety in the dental surgery.

Varnish

A volatile material used in dentistry to provide a protective film or sealant.

Vasoconstrictor

A substance such as adrenaline used in dentistry to restrict the blood supply by making the blood vessels contract.

Vasodilator

A substance that enlarges a blood vessel to allow greater blood flow.

Veneers

A layer of tooth-coloured material, which is attached to and covers the surface of a tooth. They are usually made of porcelain or composite resin.

Vestibule

The hollow areas between the cheeks and the outer surfaces of the teeth.

Vincents Angina

An extremely painful and very destructive ulcerative gingivitis. It is indicative that a patient is very run down and debilitated.

Virus

A tiny micro-organism that attacks and lives within the host cells and is not susceptible to antibiotic treatment.

Viscous

The flow properties of a substance relating to stickiness. Low viscosity or low flow fluids being stickier than high flowing or thinner ones.

Vital

Used to describe a live or healthy tooth which reacts normally to hot or cold temperature changes.

Warfarin

Blood anticoagulant used for patients who have suffered a thrombosis. Patients on Warfarin must tell the dentist before any treatment is carried out. Special precautions are needed for tooth extractions. Surgical treatment may need to be carried out in hospital.

Wax

A material used very extensively in dentistry, especially in prosthodontics. There are so many dental applications that a variety of waxes are made each with specialised properties. Different melting points and strengths are required for various tasks e.g. making replica dentures, or crown forms. The ‘lost wax’ process is the foundation of dental casting techniques.

Whitening (see also Bleaching)

A process that will result in a change in the appearance of a tooth. The treatment required will depend on the underlying cause.

Tooth discolouration can be a result of either external factors (surface stain) or internal factors (internal stain). As a general rule our teeth become darker as we become older it is a normal ageing process.

Wisdom Teeth

They are usually the last to appear, normally in the late teens and early twenties. Wisdom teeth can cause problems because they erupt at the back of the mouth after all the other permanent teeth have erupted and there is very little space left. Wisdom teeth have a habit of slowly breaking through the gum tissues at the back of the jaws. These tissues can then become infected and swollen. It is often the lower wisdom teeth that become the most troublesome. There can be serious facial swelling and a raised body temperature and fever. In these circumstances professional advice should be sought immediately.

Other wisdom teeth may never come through but remain buried and impacted at an angle in the jaw.

X-Rays

Electromagnetic waves which produce an image on a sensitive film. It indicates changes in the density of the calcified tissues.

Xerostomia (see dry mouth)

The reduced output of saliva, producing dryness of the mouth.

Yawn

A reflex action in which air is drawn into the lungs through distended airways and an open mouth.

Yeast

A single celled organism related to a fungus.

Zinc Oxide

A white amorphous powder used extensively in dentistry as a component of filling and impression materials. When mixed with eugenol and used as a temporary filling it can bring relief for toothache and sooth inflamed tissues.

Zoster

A circular pattern as seen in herpes zoster (shingles).

Zygoma

Part of the facial skeleton, which forms the floor and side of the eye socket.