May 10, 2007 , Los Angeles ( L.A. ) and Beverly Hills - Every profession has its own language but it sometimes seems medical terminology is particularly difficult to decode. While the language of cosmetic dentistry is more accessible than some other medical specialties, it still requires an occasional explanation.
Listed below are a few terms you likely will find useful when visiting your
cosmetic dentist.
Reimplantation
The inserting and temporary fixing of a completely or partially separated, cut, or torn tooth or teeth. Usually results from a traumatic injury.
Reline
The restoration of denture base using an acrylic to compensate for any bone loss.
Resin-Bonded Bridges
A
bridge that is reinforced with metal or glass fiber. Requires a minimal change to your anchor teeth
Restoration
Replacement of a portion of your damaged tooth
Retained Root
The portion of root structure that remains in your jaw after fracture or extraction of your natural tooth or teeth.
Root
The tooth structure that connects the jaw to the tooth
Root Canal
Popular term for root-canal therapy. Properly, the root canal is the interior space of your tooth root. Root-canal therapy must be performed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or dies. This condition won't heal. Rather it progresses until all the pulp is destroyed.
Root Canal Therapy
The process of removing your tooth pulp and filling it with an inert material
Root Resection
Removal of a portion of the diseased root structure to retain any remaining natural tooth
Rubber Dam
This soft latex sheet is used to isolate one or more teeth from contamination by oral fluids during
dental procedures. A dam also helps keep materials from falling to the back of your throat.
Saliva Ejector
The suction tube the
dentist places in your mouth during treatment to remove saliva
Salivary Glands
The glands, located in your cheeks and gums, that produce saliva
Scaling and Root Planing
The careful removal of calculus and plaque and calculus from your tooth surfaces. Performed by a
dental hygienist.
Sealants
A thin resin material that is bonded in the fissures and pits of your back teeth to prevent tooth decay. Sealants are almost entirely used on the biting surfaces of your back teeth. Because these areas come into the heaviest use while chewing, their surfaces often are pitted, cracked and/or irregular.
Sinusitis
An inflammation of the sinuses that can mimic
dental pain
Space Maintainer
A dental appliance that holds the space lost when baby teeth are prematurely lost
Splint
The connection of two or more teeth that allows them to function as a single, stronger structure
Supernumerary Teeth
Extra teeth
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Call top cosmetic dentist Dr. Anthony Mobasser today at 1.310.550.0383 or email us to schedule an appointment and learn more about cosmetic dentistry.
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