Glossary

Amalgam

This is a silver/mercury alloy used to fill cavities.

Bleaching

Cosmetic whitening of teeth which uses peroxide.

Caries

Cavities, tooth decay.

Composites

Tooth coloured restorative materials.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Aesthetic improvement of the colour and shape of teeth performed by a general dentist.

Endetulous

Having lost most of or all of your natural teeth.

Endodontist

Treats oral conditions that arise as a result of disease or inmjury of the dental pulp of the tooth. e.g. a root canal.

General Dentist

Primary crae provider for patients of all ages who take responsibility for the diagnosis, treatment, management and overall coordination of services to meet patients oral health.

Malocclusion

Misalignment of teeth and/or jaws.

Mouthguards

An applicance which is used to protect teeth from injury.

Occlusal Surface

The chewing surface of the tooth.

Orthodontics

A branch of dentistry dealing with irregularities of the teeth and their correction as by means of braces or a retainer.

Orthodontist

A dentist who designs and applies corrective and supportive appliances or braces to realign crooked teeth.

Periodontal disease

Inflammation and irritation of the gums which if left untreated can cause jawbone and teeth to deteriorate.

Plaque

Bacterial colonies which have mineralised and attack teeth and cause tooth decay.

Porcelain Veneers

Ultra thin shells or ceramic material bonded to the front of the tooth.

Prophylaxis

Professional cleaning of the teeth by a dentist of Hygienist.

Resin

Plastic material used in bonding, restorative and replacement procedures.

Third Molars

These are wisdom teeth.

TMJ

Temporomandibular Joint (clicking joint).