Basic Dental Terms

Anterior teeth - These are the teeth at the front of your mouth, six upper and six lower.

Bridge - this is a device created to replace missing teeth. It imitates the tooth that originally was there and is then attached to the existing teeth on either side.

Bruxism - This is when adults or children grind their teeth while sleeping.

Caries also known as Cavities - refers to tooth decay.

Cuspid - Also known as canines or eyeteeth, refers to the pointed teeth used to tear food. There are two upper and two lower.

Decay - Refers to the formation of a cavity, it is the decomposition of the tooth structure.

Extraction - Is the separation and surgical removal of a tooth. Basically... pull a tooth!

Gingivitis - Is the inflammation of gum tissue.

Molars - These are the teeth used for grinding food. In adults there are a total of 12.

Plaque - according to definition 'is composed of secretions containing bacteria, dead tissue cells and debris', just reading that is enough to make someone go and brush their teeth!

Tartar - is the hard deposit that forms on teeth after plaque hardens.

Veneer - a thin, custom-made shell of tooth-colored plastic or porcelain that are bonded directly to the front side of natural teeth to improve their appearance -- for example, to replace lost tooth structure, close spaces, straighten teeth, or change color and/or shape.

Make sure to ask your dentist or dental hygienist for more details, don't be afraid to ask a question!