Decay

A diseased tooth structure that’s softened by a cavity (the caries process). These “sugar bugs” are removed to create a hard surface so a filling can be placed.

Enamel

The hard surface of the tooth above the gum line.

Erupting

New teeth that have broken through the gums and are “on their way in.” They’re referred to as “erupting” until they are fully in the mouth.

Etchant

A gentle acid used to treat the surface of the prepared tooth so that the filling material will stick to the tooth.

Explorer

A tool used to check teeth for cavities (also called a “tooth counter”). It’s curved and sharp, but touches only the teeth. Most patients don’t even notice it.

Extraction

The removal of a tooth or teeth.

Filling

A plug made of metal or composite material used to fill a tooth cavity.

Fluoride

A chemical solution used to harden teeth and prevent decay.

Gingivitis

Swollen or inflamed gums caused by plaque around the teeth. The dentist or dental assistant will demonstrate how to brush the child’s teeth to remove plaque effectively.

Gingival

The area toward the bottom or gum side of the tooth (also called the cervical).

Gums

The firm flesh that surrounds the roots of the teeth.

Impacted tooth

A tooth that sits sideways below the gum line, usually requiring extraction (it’s often a wisdom tooth).

Medical history

Sharing important details, such as acute or chronic illnesses or hospitalizations. The dentist must know the patient’s health status in order to provide appropriate and safe treatment.

Nightguard

A plastic mouthpiece worn at night to prevent teeth grinding; often used to treat TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder).

Occlusion

The way in which the teeth come together when the mouth closes (also called the “bite”). The dentist uses terms like “overbite” and “overjet” and “class I or class II or class III” to describe the bite.

Plaque

A sticky buildup of acids and bacteria that causes tooth decay.

Primary teeth

Baby teeth; also called deciduous teeth

Rubber dam

A square piece of vinyl or rubber used to isolate the teeth during a filling or other treatment (also called a “raincoat”). It keeps saliva and other debris away from the tooth.

Rubber dam clamp

A ring or button that hugs the back-most tooth in an area isolated with a rubber dam. It’s the “raincoat” that hugs the tooth.

Sealants

Clear or shaded pieces of plastic that protect the grooved and pitted surfaces of teeth by keeping out food and plaque that can cause cavities.

Spacers

These removable or fixed appliances are designed to prevent tooth movement. They’re generally placed after an extraction or in cases of teeth that were missing from birth. This allows new teeth to come into place and keeps the bite even (also called “space maintainers”).

Tartar

The hardened plaque that can form on neglected teeth (also known as calculus).