Archives

Abrasion

Loss of tooth structure caused by a hard toothbrush, poor brushing technique, or Bruxism (grinding or clenching the teeth)

Abscess

An infection of a tooth, soft tissue or bone

Abutment

Tooth or teeth that support a fixed or removable bridge

Air Abrasion

Contemporary term for dental restorations that involve “bonding” of composite resin or porcelain fillings to natural teeth

Allergy

Unfavorable systemic response to a foreign substance or drug

Amalgam

A most common filling material, also known as “silver fillings,”containing mercury (app 50%), silver, tin, copper and zinc used for fillings

Analgesia

A state of pain relief; an agent lessening pain

Anesthesia

Partial or complete elimination of pain sensation; numbing a tooth is an example of local anesthesia; general anesthesia produces partial or complete unconsciousness