Education | Terminology
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Decay of the baby teeth caused by prolonged contact with any liquid other than water.
Bisphosphonates
Drugs such as Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva that are being used to treat osteoporosis and have been shown to cause jaw bone death in rare cases.
Bridges
A three or more artificial teeth made of gold, porcelain, alloys or a combination of these compounds connected together to fill space(s) from missing teeth and bonded onto surrounding teeth to restore function.
Canker sore
Non-contagious small white or gray ulcers with a red border that occur inside the mouth.
Cold Sores/fever blisters
Highly contagious fluid-filled blisters around the lips or around the chin caused by herpes virus type 1.
Dental Insurance
A supplemental program generally with only a $1000 to $1500 maximum coverage per year designed to help cover some of the costs incurred with dental work.
Dentures
Artificial teeth set in an acrylic base, designed to allow the wearer to eat and speak by replacing all missing teeth.
Implants
Artificial tooth root placed into the bone that holds a replacement tooth made of gold, porcelain, alloys or a combination or these compounds or denture to fill space(s).
Mouthguards
Designed to help prevent broken teeth and injures to the lip and tongue during physical activities.
Oral Piercing
Cause an increased risk of periodontal disease and common symptoms such as pain, swelling and infection as well as cracked or chipped teeth.
Partial Dentures
Artificial teeth set in an acrylic base connected to a metal or flexible framework to replace select missing teeth.