Glossary

 | April 1, 2007

Glossary

abscess: Pus-filled pocket surrounded by inflamed tissue.

abutment: Tooth or implant to which a fixed prosthesis is anchored.

alveolar bone: Part of the jawbone that supports the teeth.

bonding: Application of composite resin to the surface of a tooth to change its shape or color, or to attach something to the tooth.

cavity: Hole in the tooth caused by advanced decay.

cementum: Layer of tooth material that covers the root.

crown: Part of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. Also refers to a type of restoration that covers the crown of the tooth.

demineralization: Process by which bacteria destroy tooth enamel.

dental caries: See tooth decay.

dental implant: Metal post inserted into the alveolar bone to support an artificial tooth or other prosthesis.

dentin: Layer of hardened tooth tissue under the enamel and around the pulp.

denture: Removable set of artificial teeth.

enamel: Hard outside layer of tooth material.

fluoride: Naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. It is a common additive to toothpaste and mouth rinses and is present in many community water sources.

gingiva: See gums.

gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums.

gum disease: See periodontal disease.

gums: Form of oral tissue that covers the roots of teeth and surrounding bone. Also called the gingiva.

halitosis: Bad breath.

impacted tooth: Tooth that can't emerge normally because of an obstruction or overcrowded teeth.

occlusion: Way in which biting surfaces of upper and lower teeth come together. Also called bite.

oral mucosa: Layer of soft pinkish tissue that lines the interior of the mouth.

osseointegration: Process in which bone heals around an implant to create a stable anchor.

palate: Tissues that make up the roof of the mouth.

periodontal disease: Diseases including gingivitis and periodontitis that attack the gum tissue and the structures supporting the teeth. Also called gum disease.

periodontitis: Advanced stage of gum disease that attacks the teeth's supporting structures.

plaque: Sticky, bacteria-laden material that builds up on teeth.

pulp: Tissue containing nerves and blood vessels that fills the chamber at the center of the tooth.

remineralization: Rebuilding of enamel structure from mineral components of saliva.

restoration: Replacement of all or a portion of tooth structure with metal, plastic, or ceramic material.

root: Portion of the tooth below the gum line.

root canal: Channel in the root of the tooth that contains the pulp.

root canal therapy: Procedure in which diseased pulp tissue is removed from the pulp chamber and root canal and the area is sealed off.

sealant: Liquid plastic coating applied to biting surfaces of teeth to protect them from decay.

Streptococcus mutans: Bacterial species responsible for dental caries.

sulcus: V-shaped hollow at the margin of the tooth and gum.

tartar: Hardened layer of plaque that builds up on teeth. Also called calculus.

tooth decay: Infectious disease that attacks the teeth. Also called dental caries.

Back to top

Review Date: 2007-04-01

Harvard Medical School does not endorse products or services.