Tooth Anatomy
The hardest substance in the human body that covers the crown of the tooth.
Enamel
This sticky, colorless film of bacteria constantly forms on your teeth and is the main cause of cavities.
Plaque
The common name for dental caries, which are holes in the teeth caused by decay.
Cavities
The dental specialist who focuses on straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment.
Orthodontist
The soft inner part of the tooth containing the nerves and blood vessels.
Pulp
The recommended amount of time, in minutes, that you should brush your teeth.
Two (minutes)
This initial stage of gum disease causes red, swollen gums that may bleed easily, but is usually reversible with good hygiene.
Gingivitis
A thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent food and bacteria from settling in the grooves.
Dental Sealants
The bone-like layer beneath the enamel and cementum that makes up the bulk of the tooth structure.
Dentin
Besides brushing, you should do this at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
Floss
A condition where teeth are not correctly positioned with the opposing jaw, often corrected by an orthodontist.
Malocclusion (or a bad bite)
A common restorative procedure where decayed tooth material is removed and the space is filled, often with composite resin or amalgam.
Filling
The four sharp teeth at the front of the mouth used for cutting food.
Incisors
A mineral added to toothpaste and sometimes public water supplies that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
Fluoride
An infection at the root of the tooth, often causing severe pain, which may require a root canal procedure.
Dental Abscess
The process of removing the infected pulp from the inside of a tooth to save the tooth from extraction.
Root Canal (or Endodontic Therapy)
The layer of hard connective tissue that covers the tooth root and anchors it to the jawbone.
Cementum
A term for hardened plaque that can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.
Tartar (or Calculus)
The four back teeth that typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, often requiring removal.
Wisdom Teeth (or Third Molars)
A procedure where a damaged or decayed tooth is completely covered with a cap to restore its shape, size, and strength.
Crown