Abscessed Tooth
A serious infection caused by bacteria that can result in swelling, pain, and potential systemic health risks.
Your comprehensive guide to oral health terms. Explore 111 definitions curated by the 97 Smiles team to help you navigate your dental journey with confidence.
A serious infection caused by bacteria that can result in swelling, pain, and potential systemic health risks.
Dental care structured to remain accessible through transparent pricing and flexible payment options.
A technique that uses four strategically placed implants to support a full arch of fixed teeth.
The highest amount a dental insurance plan will pay toward care within a calendar year.
The wire used in braces to guide teeth into proper alignment over time.
The way upper and lower teeth come together when the mouth closes, which affects chewing and jaw health.
A procedure used to rebuild jawbone density when there is insufficient bone to support dental implants.
Fixed orthodontic appliances that use brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into proper alignment.
A condition involving teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep and potentially damaging teeth.
A healthcare financing option that allows patients to pay for dental treatment over time through approved payment plans.
Braces that use tooth-colored or clear brackets for a less noticeable appearance.
The way a dentist communicates and interacts with patients during treatment.
Custom-made, removable trays designed to shift teeth gradually and discreetly.
A locally focused dental office serving individuals and families within a specific area.
Fillings made from resin material designed to match the natural color of your tooth for a discreet appearance.
A minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses tooth-colored resin to repair chips, close gaps, and improve tooth shape.
Veneers made from resin material applied directly to teeth to improve appearance with a more conservative approach than porcelain veneers.
A full evaluation of your oral health that includes examining your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw, often supported by digital X-rays to identify issues early.
Dental treatments focused on improving the appearance of teeth and smiles while maintaining oral health and function.
A misalignment where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, potentially causing uneven wear and jaw discomfort.
A professional cleaning that removes plaque and tartar buildup to help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Custom-made caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore strength, function, and appearance.
Any dental issue requiring immediate attention, including severe pain, swelling, or injury to the teeth or gums.
A trusted dental practice where patients receive consistent, comprehensive care over time.
Permanent tooth replacements that use a titanium post placed in the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture.
A health benefit that helps cover the cost of dental care, often with limitations, waiting periods, and annual maximums.
Thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent decay, especially in children.
Minor modifications made to improve denture comfort, stability, and fit.
An adjustment that reshapes the underside of a denture to improve fit as the gums and bone change over time.
The process of fixing cracks, breaks, or worn components in a denture.
The use of digital tools such as scanners, imaging, and software to improve accuracy and efficiency.
Low-radiation imaging used to detect cavities, bone loss, infections, and other conditions not visible during a visual exam.
A dentist who provides urgent care for sudden dental problems such as pain, infection, or trauma.
Dental care provided to patients of all ages, allowing families to receive treatment in one convenient location.
Orthodontic devices, such as braces, that remain attached to teeth throughout treatment.
Structured options offered by a dental office to help patients manage treatment costs over time.
A preventive application that strengthens tooth enamel and helps reduce the risk of cavities.
Post-treatment visits used to monitor healing and long-term outcomes.
Removable appliances that replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
A comprehensive solution that replaces all teeth in the upper or lower jaw using implant-supported restorations.
A solution that replaces an entire upper or lower set of teeth using a fixed prosthesis supported by multiple implants.
The earliest stage of gum disease, marked by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums, and often reversible with proper care.
An infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth that can range from mild inflammation to advanced bone loss if untreated.
A tooth that fails to fully emerge due to lack of space or improper positioning.
Dentures placed immediately after tooth extraction so patients are not without teeth during healing.
The connector piece that attaches the implant post to the implant crown or restoration.
A fixed restoration supported by implants that replaces multiple missing teeth without relying on natural teeth.
The visible, tooth-shaped restoration placed on top of a dental implant to complete the replacement.
The surgical process of positioning the implant post into the jawbone, where it heals and integrates with the bone.
Dentures anchored to dental implants for improved stability, comfort, and chewing ability compared to traditional dentures.
The process of explaining treatment options, risks, and benefits before proceeding with care.
The process of confirming insurance benefits before treatment begins.
A system of clear, removable aligners used to straighten teeth without traditional braces.
A technique that creates small amounts of space between teeth to aid alignment without extractions.
Medication used to numb a specific area of the mouth during dental treatment to prevent pain.
The ongoing condition of teeth, gums, and jaw supported through consistent dental care.
A general term for misalignment of teeth or improper bite.
State-supported dental benefits that may cover certain preventive and restorative services depending on eligibility.
Treatment approaches designed to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible.
A structured financing option that allows patients to pay for treatment in smaller installments over time.
An introductory offer that provides discounted pricing for first-time patients on select dental services.
The medical term used to describe how teeth contact each other during biting and chewing.
A visual and tactile exam used to detect early signs of oral cancer or abnormal tissue changes.
Dental procedures involving surgical treatment of the mouth, teeth, or jaw.
Small attachments bonded to teeth that hold wires in place during braces treatment.
An evaluation used to determine whether braces or aligners are appropriate and which option best suits the patient.
Regular visits during orthodontic treatment to track progress and make adjustments.
The branch of dentistry focused on correcting misaligned teeth and bite issues.
The natural process by which a dental implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for replacement teeth.
The portion of dental expenses not covered by insurance.
A condition where the upper front teeth overlap significantly over the lower teeth, which can lead to wear, jaw strain, and alignment issues.
Removable appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth while preserving remaining natural teeth.
An approach that prioritizes individual needs, preferences, and comfort.
Dental services tailored to children, focusing on prevention, comfort, and healthy oral development.
An advanced form of gum disease that causes permanent damage to the bone supporting the teeth and may lead to tooth loss.
Durable veneers made from porcelain material designed to closely mimic natural tooth enamel.
A customized schedule of exams and cleanings designed to maintain oral health.
Dental care focused on preventing problems before they start, including exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and patient education.
The dental specialty focused on restoring and replacing missing or damaged teeth.
An infection inside the tooth affecting the nerve, often requiring root canal treatment.
A routine visit scheduled in advance for ongoing preventive care.
Devices worn after orthodontic treatment to maintain the corrected position of teeth.
A procedure that removes infected tissue from inside a tooth to relieve pain and save the natural tooth structure.
Dental visits available on the same day for urgent or immediate concerns.
Crowns designed and placed in a single visit using digital technology, eliminating the need for temporary crowns.
The use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures, especially for anxiety or complex treatments.
The process of planning cosmetic dental treatments based on facial features, tooth proportions, and patient goals.
A customized treatment plan combining multiple procedures, such as crowns, implants, or whitening, to improve smile appearance.
Dentures that attach securely to dental implants while remaining removable for cleaning.
A more complex tooth removal procedure that may involve cutting the gum or bone.
A professional treatment that lightens tooth color by removing stains caused by food, drinks, aging, or smoking.
A short-term appliance worn while permanent dentures or implant restorations are being prepared.
A condition affecting the temporomandibular joint that can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
A procedure used to release pus from an infected tooth or gum area to relieve pressure and pain.
The breakdown of tooth structure caused by bacteria, leading to cavities and potential infection.
The removal of a tooth when it cannot be saved due to damage, decay, or infection.
A condition where teeth react painfully to hot, cold, sweet, or pressure due to exposed dentin or enamel wear.
An itemized overview of expected costs for recommended dental procedures.
The structured process of evaluating conditions and outlining recommended dental care steps.
An estimated schedule outlining how long orthodontic or restorative treatment is expected to take.
A minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses tooth-colored resin to repair chips, close gaps, and improve tooth shape.
Veneers made from resin material applied directly to teeth to improve appearance with a more conservative approach than porcelain veneers.
The process of planning cosmetic dental treatments based on facial features, tooth proportions, and patient goals.
Small attachments bonded to teeth that hold wires in place during braces treatment.
The wire used in braces to guide teeth into proper alignment over time.
A general term for misalignment of teeth or improper bite.
A condition where teeth react painfully to hot, cold, sweet, or pressure due to exposed dentin or enamel wear.
The breakdown of tooth structure caused by bacteria, leading to cavities and potential infection.
An infection inside the tooth affecting the nerve, often requiring root canal treatment.
A procedure used to release pus from an infected tooth or gum area to relieve pressure and pain.
A structured financing option that allows patients to pay for treatment in smaller installments over time.
Try different keywords or check back later.
Privacy Policy | Accessibility | Disclaimer