Glossary

Dental Exams Glossary

Key terms to understand what happens during a comprehensive dental exam — from oral cancer screening and X-rays to periodontal charting and bite evaluation.

Bruxism

Grinding or clenching your teeth, usually during sleep.

Caries

The technical term for tooth decay or cavities.

Cavity

A hole in a tooth caused by decay.

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).

Calculus

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

Curettage

A procedure to remove diseased tissue from the periodontal pockets.

Gingivitis

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

Hygienist

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

Periodontal pockets

Spaces or gaps that form between the gums and teeth due to gum disease.

Periodontitis

Advanced stage of gum disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth.

Prophylaxis (Prophy)

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

Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)

The technical term for a deep cleaning.