Solea dental laser near me
Solea dental laser near me | Dental Dictionary P.
Understanding dental terminology is essential for patients and professionals alike.
Dental Dictionary P
Here is a detailed look at various dental terms, their meanings and their role in dental care:
Palate
The palate refers to the hard and soft tissues that form the roof of the mouth. It separates the oral cavity from the nasal passages and plays a vital role in speech and eating. The hard palate provides structure, while the soft palate aids in swallowing and speech production.
Palatal Expander
A palatal expander is an orthodontic device used to widen the upper jaw. This tool is typically used during the developmental years to help correct bite issues and make space for the proper alignment of teeth.
Palliative Treatment
Palliative treatment focuses on providing relief from symptoms, particularly pain, rather than curing the underlying condition. This is often used for patients with severe dental discomfort or in end-of-life care situations.
Panoramic Radiograph (X-ray)
A panoramic radiograph is a type of dental X-ray that captures a full, wide image of the upper and lower teeth and jaws in a single flattened image. This diagnostic tool helps dentists assess the overall oral health of a patient, including the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding tissues.
Partial Denture
A partial denture is a removable prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike full dentures, which replace all the teeth, partial dentures fill in gaps caused by lost teeth, improving both function and appearance. Partial dentures may be supported by natural teeth or implants.
Pediatric Dentist
A pediatric dentist specializes in the dental care of children, from infancy through adolescence. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle the specific needs of young patients, including preventive care, treatment for cavities, and addressing oral health issues unique to children.
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty that focuses on the care and treatment of children’s teeth, gums, and mouth. It includes preventive care, education and the treatment of dental problems that arise during childhood, including special needs care.
Periapical (PA)
The term periapical refers to the area around the end of the tooth root. This area is critical when diagnosing root issues or infections in the tooth’s pulp.
Pericoronal
Pericoronal refers to the area surrounding the crown of a tooth, often used to describe issues such as pericoronitis, where the tissue around a partially erupted tooth becomes inflamed.
Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding a dental implant. If left untreated, it can lead to bone loss and implant failure.
Periodontal
Periodontal pertains to the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. Healthy periodontal tissues are essential for strong, stable teeth.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease includes conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which are caused by inflammation of the periodontal tissues. This condition can result in the development of periodontal pockets, bone loss, and tooth loss, and requires treatment to manage, although it cannot be fully cured.
Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery is used to treat gum disease and other conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. This may include gum grafts, pocket reduction, or other surgical procedures to restore gum health and function.
Periodontics
Periodontics is the dental specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, such as the gums and bone. Periodontists also specialize in the placement of dental implants.
Periodontist
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on treating diseases of the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists also perform procedures like dental implants and manage periodontal disease.
Dental Terminology
Additional words:
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a severe form of periodontal disease that causes inflammation, infection, and destruction of the supporting tissues around the teeth, including the bone. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults.
Permanent Teeth
Permanent teeth, also known as adult teeth, are the second set of teeth that replace primary (baby) teeth. There are usually 32 permanent teeth, which appear over several years and last a lifetime with proper care.
Plaque
Plaque is a soft, sticky substance that forms on teeth, consisting of food particles, bacteria, and saliva. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Pontic
A pontic is a prosthetic tooth used in dental bridges or partial dentures to replace a missing tooth. It helps restore the function and appearance of the smile.
Post
A post is a thin rod inserted into the root of a tooth after a root canal treatment. It provides support for a crown or other restorative procedures.
Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining good oral health by preventing dental problems before they arise. It includes regular check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and educating patients about proper oral hygiene.
Prophylaxis
Prophylaxis refers to the professional cleaning of teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains. Regular prophylaxis helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Prosthodontics
Prosthodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the restoration and replacement of teeth using prosthetic devices such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.
Prosthodontist
A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth. They focus on creating prosthetic devices to restore the function and aesthetics of the smile.
Pulp
The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels. The health of the pulp is essential for the overall well-being of the tooth.
Pulp Cap
A pulp cap is a medicated covering placed over an exposed area of the tooth’s pulp to encourage healing and protect it from further infection or damage.
Pulpectomy
A pulpectomy is the complete removal of the pulp tissue from inside a tooth. This procedure is typically done during a root canal treatment when the pulp is infected or damaged.
Pulpitis
Pulpitis is the inflammation of the pulp tissue within the tooth, often caused by infection, trauma or decay. It is a common cause of toothaches.
Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy involves the removal of a diseased portion of the pulp while leaving healthy pulp tissue intact. This procedure is typically done in children’s teeth to preserve the tooth.
By understanding these essential dental terms, patients can improve their knowledge of dental care and the various treatments available to maintain oral health. Whether you are dealing with periodontal issues, pediatric care or restorative procedures, knowing these terms can help you communicate better with your dentist and make informed decisions about your dental health.