If you’ve ever sat in the dental chair and heard words like “filling,” “crown,” “enamel,” or “periodontal,” and thought “…wait, what?” — you’re not alone.
Dentistry has its own language, and while your dentist will always explain things clearly, it can be helpful to understand some of the most common terms. Knowing what they mean can help you feel more confident, ask better questions, and make informed choices about your dental health.
Below is a simple A–Z glossary of dental terms every patient should know.
A
Abscess
A painful infection that forms when bacteria get inside a tooth or gum. It often causes swelling, throbbing pain, and sometimes a bad taste. Abscesses need prompt treatment.
Airflow (Air Polishing)
A professional cleaning technique that uses a gentle stream of air, water and powder to remove surface staining. It’s great for tea, coffee and smoking stains.
B
Bite (Occlusion)
How your top and bottom teeth fit together when you close your mouth. Bite issues can cause headaches, jaw pain, and uneven tooth wear.
Bruxism
The medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth — often while asleep. Over time it can wear teeth down and cause jaw pain.
C
Cavity
A hole in the tooth caused by tooth decay. Cavities start small but can grow quickly if not treated.
Composite Bonding
A cosmetic treatment where tooth-coloured resin is shaped and polished onto a tooth to improve its appearance. It’s commonly used to repair chips, close gaps, or reshape teeth.
Crown
A protective “cap” placed over a tooth to restore its shape, strength and appearance. Crowns are often used after root canal treatment or when a tooth is badly damaged.
D
Decay
Damage to the tooth caused by acid from bacteria. Decay can lead to cavities, sensitivity and pain.
Dental Implant
A titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. A crown is then attached on top. Implants are one of the most long-lasting tooth replacement options.
Dentine
The layer underneath enamel. It’s softer than enamel and more sensitive — which is why exposed dentine can cause discomfort.
E
Enamel
The hard outer layer of the tooth. It protects the inner tooth structure. Enamel is very strong, but it can wear down or erode over time.
Erosion
When tooth enamel is worn away by acid (often from fizzy drinks, citrus foods, reflux, or frequent snacking). Erosion is different from decay — but it can still cause sensitivity and damage.
F
Filling
A treatment used to repair a cavity or damaged tooth. The dentist removes the decay and replaces it with a material such as a composite (white) filling.
Fluoride
A natural mineral that strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay. Fluoride is found in toothpaste and is often used in professional treatments.
G
Gingivitis
The early stage of gum disease. Gums may bleed when brushing, look red, or feel tender. The good news? Gingivitis is usually reversible with proper cleaning and hygiene visits.
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
An infection of the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss if untreated.
H
Hygienist
A dental professional who focuses on preventing and treating gum disease through cleaning, stain removal (including Airflow), and oral hygiene advice.
I
Invisalign
A type of orthodontic treatment using clear removable aligners to straighten teeth. It’s popular because it’s discreet and comfortable for many patients.
Impacted Tooth
A tooth that is trapped under the gum and doesn’t come through properly — often wisdom teeth.
J
Jaw Joint (TMJ)
The joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. Problems with this joint can cause pain, clicking, headaches and difficulty opening your mouth.
L
Local Anaesthetic
A numbing injection used to prevent pain during treatment. You’ll still feel pressure, but you shouldn’t feel discomfort.
O
Oral Cancer Screening
A routine check carried out during dental examinations. Your dentist checks the mouth, lips and tongue for anything unusual.
Orthodontics
The branch of dentistry that focuses on straightening teeth and correcting bite issues (braces, Invisalign, etc.).
P
Plaque
A sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. If it’s not removed, it can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Periodontal
Anything relating to the gums and supporting structures around the teeth.
Periodontitis
A more advanced form of gum disease where the gums pull away from the teeth and bone can be lost. This is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
R
Root Canal Treatment
A procedure used to save a tooth when the nerve inside is infected or damaged. The infected tissue is removed, the tooth is cleaned, and then sealed.
Recession
When the gum pulls away from the tooth, exposing the root. This can cause sensitivity and make teeth appear longer.
S
Scale and Polish
A professional cleaning where hardened tartar is removed and teeth are polished. Many patients have this as part of a hygiene appointment.
Sensitivity
A sharp discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods. It often happens when enamel wears down or gums recede.
T
Tartar (Calculus)
Hardened plaque that cannot be removed with brushing alone. It needs professional removal by a dentist or hygienist.
Tooth Whitening
A cosmetic treatment that lightens the natural shade of your teeth. Professional whitening is safer and more effective than most over-the-counter kits.
V
Veneers
Thin porcelain or composite shells bonded to the front of teeth to improve shape, colour and alignment.
Final thoughts: Don’t be afraid to ask
Even with a glossary like this, the most important thing to remember is: there are no silly questions at the dentist.
At The Priors Dental Practice, we want every patient to feel comfortable and fully informed — whether you’re coming in for a routine check-up, hygiene appointment, Invisalign consultation or dental implants.
Need advice or want to book an appointment?
If you have questions about a dental term, a symptom, or a treatment option, our team is happy to help.
Contact us here to arrange your appointment with The Priors Dental Practice.
