Glossary

Dental Exams Glossary

Definitions of common dental exam, X-ray, and screening terms used at your checkup.

Bruxism

Grinding or clenching your teeth, usually during sleep.

Tooth Decay (Dental Caries)

The breakdown of teeth due to acids produced by bacteria.

Cavity

A hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay.

Tooth Enamel

The thin outer covering of the tooth. This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the human body.

Dental Charting

The process of recording the condition of your teeth and gums on a chart.

Occlusion

The way your upper and lower teeth fit together when you bite down.

Oral Exam

The visual and physical examination of your mouth, teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues.

Palpation

When the dentist uses their fingers to examine the tissues in your mouth.

Periodontal Exam

An evaluation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth to check for gum disease.

Plaque

A sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth.

Restoration

A general term for any dental work used to restore the function or appearance of a tooth (e.g., fillings, crowns).

Tartar (Calculus)

Hardened plaque that can build up on teeth and below the gumline.

Biopsy

A small tissue sample taken for examination under a microscope.

Erythroplakia

Red patches or spots in the mouth that may be precancerous.

Leukoplakia

White patches or spots in the mouth that may be precancerous.

Physical Exam

The dentist uses their fingers to feel for any lumps, bumps, or irregularities.

Visual Exam

The dentist visually inspects the mouth, tongue, and throat for any abnormalities.

Bitewing X-Rays

Show the upper and lower teeth in a specific area to check for decay between teeth.

Dental X-Rays

A type of image of the teeth and mouth to help dentists diagnose damage and disease that is not visible during a clinical dental examination.

Panoramic X-Ray

Provides a wide view of the entire mouth, including the teeth, jawbones, and sinuses.

Periapical X-Rays

Show the entire tooth, from crown to root, to assess the tooth's health and surrounding bone.

Radiolucent

Areas that appear dark on an X-ray, indicating less dense structures (like decay).

Radiopaque

Areas that appear white or light gray on an X-ray, indicating denser structures (like fillings or bone).

Gingivitis

Early stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums.

Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis)

Also called gum disease, a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, the bone that supports your teeth.

Hygienist

A licensed dental professional who provides preventive care, such as cleanings, exams, and patient education.

Prophylaxis (Prophy)

A professional teeth cleaning that removes plaque, tartar, and stains.

Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)

The technical term for a deep cleaning.