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Glossary of Dental Terminology

-D-

• Decalcification-the loss of calcium from your teeth which makes them more susceptible to decay.
• Deciduous Teeth-your primary or "baby teeth".
• Dental Implant-used to replace missing teeth. Implants are different than bridges in that the implant is permanently attached directly to the jawbone.
• Denture-an artificial set of teeth that is removable.

-E-

• Enamel-a natural, hard substance that protects the portion of your teeth above the gum-line.
• Extraction-the removal of teeth (may be simple or require surgery).

-F-

• Fillings-restoring of lost tooth structure by using materials such as: metal, alloy, cement, porcelain or synthetics.
• Fluoride-a chemical solution that you put on your teeth to harden them and prevent tooth decay.

-G-

• Gingivitis-inflammation of gum tissue caused by plaque or tartar build up. Gingivitis can sometimes be recognized by a redness and puffiness of the gums, bleeding of the gums when they're brushed, and sometimes a bad mouth odor, or halitosis.
• Gums-pink areas around your teeth

-H-

• Home Care-daily routine of brushing and flossing to keep teeth and gums healthy between dental cleanings. May involve use of special tools if teeth and gums are affected by periodontal disease.

-I-

• Impacted Tooth-usually associated with a wisdom tooth, it is a tooth that has somehow gotten stuck so that complete eruption is unlikely.
• Implant-see dental implant.
• Incisor-another name for the centrals and laterals.

-K-

• K7i-computerized, state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment used to determine correct bite and jaw tracking. Critical for Rapid Full Mouth Restoration.

-L-

• Lateral-the teeth adjacent to the centrals.

-N-

• Night Guard-a plastic mouthpiece to prevent damage from grinding teeth at night.