GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Bruxing/Bruxism. Grinding/gnashing
of the teeth.
Endodontics. Pertaining to root canal therapy
Clenching. Clamping of the teeth together.
Gingivitis. Inflammation of the gums.
Frenectomy. Severing of the fibrous attachment
of the cheek to the gum.
Mastication. Chewing of food.
MucoGingival Problem. Lack of gum tissue which
generally results in recession/root exposure.
Orthodontics. Pertaining to tooth and orthopedic
jaw movements.
Parafunction. Tooth contact not related to eating.
Bruxing and clenching are forms of parafunction.
Periodontics. Pertaining to the periodontium/gums.
Periodontitis. Disease/Inflammation of the supporting
tissues of the teeth.
Periodontium. Structures which hold your teeth
in place. These include the jaw bone, the tissue ligament (periodontal
ligament; PDL) and the gums around the teeth.
Prognosis. Possible or expected outcomes with
or without treatments.
Predetermination/Preauthorization. An insurance term whereby it is determined
how much benefit an insurance carrier will pay for recommended or required
treatments.
Pulp/Pulpitis. The pulp is the nerve of the tooth.
When inflamed, it is called pulpitis.
Radiograph. An X-ray picture
TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder). Condition affecting
the muscles, joints and teeth used for chewing
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