May 15, 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.
Tartar
A hard deposit that adheres to teeth; more commonly known as "dental calculus." Tartar creates rough surfaces on the teeth that attract plaque.
TMD (or TMJ disorder)
Temperomandibular Disorder is a condition characterized by pain and the restricted movement of the jaw.
TMJ
The Temporomandibular Joint is the point at which the lower jaw attaches to the skull.
Third-party Provider
Refers to insurance companies, government agencies and unions that pay a portion of or all dental-treatment costs
Tooth Bud
The early, embryonic structure that ultimately becomes a child's tooth
Tooth Whitening
The chemical or laser process by which the color of teeth are lightened
Topical Anesthetic
An ointment that serves as a mild anesthesia when applied to the surface of tissue
Transplant
Placement of a natural tooth in the empty socket of another tooth
Trauma
Injury produce by chemicals, extreme temperatures, external forces or poor tooth alignment
Trench Mouth
A gum disease that presents with lost tissue and severe mouth sores
UCR
Usual, customary and reasonable fees
Unerupted Teeth
Teeth that have not yet pushed through the gums and taken their correct position in the dental arch
Veneer
A contact-thin plastic or porcelain facing that bonds directly to a tooth. Veneers usually are used to repair cracked, chipped or worn teeth.
Vertical Dimension
An arbitrary space that appears when the lower and upper jaws are closed. With time, damage, shifting or wear to the teeth may decrease this space.
Walking Bleach
The procedure used to lighten teeth darkened by a root-canal treatment.
Wisdom Teeth
The last three molars that usually erupt around 18-25 (upon the attainment of "wisdom")
Xerostomia
A decrease in the mouth's production of saliva. Also known as "dry mouth"
X-Rays
X-rays are used to reveal problems a dentist can visually observe or by using other methods. There are three types of dental x-rays: Complete series, panographics and bitewing.
LEARN MORE
Call 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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