Technical Terms Explained
Ever found yourself sitting in the dental chair, hearing a flurry of terms flying between your dentist and hygienist that sound more like a foreign language than anything to do with your teeth?
You’re not alone.
Dentistry has a language all its own, full of technical terms that help professionals communicate precisely about what’s going on in your mouth. At Erbsville Dental, we believe in clear communication—so here’s a breakdown of 10 dental terms you might overhear and what they actually mean. Read Empowering Patients with Knowledge
- 1. Prophylaxis (Prophy)
This is a fancy word for a routine dental cleaning. A “prophy” removes plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth—essentially the maintenance your smile needs every 6 months. - 2. Calculus
Nope, not the math. Calculus is hardened dental plaque that can’t be removed by brushing. It has to be scraped off by a hygienist using special tools during your cleaning. - 3. Occlusion
This refers to how your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite. An improper occlusion can lead to issues like jaw pain, uneven wear, and even cracked teeth. - 4. Caries
This is the technical term for cavities or tooth decay. When your dentist says “incipient caries,” they’re talking about the beginning stage of decay. - 5. Restoration
This is a catch-all term for any procedure that restores the function and integrity of a tooth—like fillings, crowns, or onlays. - 6. Endodontic
Relating to the inside of the tooth, particularly the pulp and root canals. If you need “endodontic therapy,” you’re likely getting a root canal. - 7. Periodontal
This term pertains to the structures around the teeth—mainly your gums and bone. “Periodontal disease” refers to gum disease, which can range from mild gingivitis to more severe bone loss. - 8. Bitewing
A type of dental X-ray that shows the crowns of the upper and lower teeth in one area. Dentists use these to detect decay between teeth. - 9. Bruxism
A common condition where a person grinds or clenches their teeth, often during sleep. This can lead to tooth damage, headaches, and jaw issues over time. - 10. Sealant
A thin, protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent decay. It’s especially useful for kids but sometimes used for adults with deep grooves in their teeth.
Erbsville Dental Welcomes Questions
At Erbsville Dental, we always welcome questions—so if you hear us using terms you don’t recognize, feel free to ask! We’re here not only to take care of your teeth but also to help you feel informed and confident about your dental health.
Located in Waterloo, we proudly serve individuals and families looking for compassionate, professional, and jargon-free dental care.
Visit erbsvilledental.ca or call us at (519) 342-1166
