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Abscess
A painfull swelling caused by extensive dental decay or gum disease. A dentist should be consulted as soon as possible.
Anaesthetics
In general dental practice, only local anaesthetics are used to numb the relevant area. Referral for general anaesthesia may be possible in certain cases.
Baby teeth
By age 3 most children have 20 baby teeth. It is important for all children to have a dental check-up from the time that these teeth first appear.
Braces
These are used to straighten and move teeth. There are two sorts, removable and fixed.
Bridges
These are used to replace missing teeth. They consist of two crowns joined together by a false tooth in the middle. Bridges are fixed and cannot be removed. Unfortunately, not every space can be bridged. Ask for details.
Cavities
These appear in teeth if plaque is not regularly removed. Restoration with an appropriate filling material is required.
Crowns (or caps)
These are used to restore broken, weakened or teeth with large fillings. They replace the shape and natural contour of the tooth. Crowns come in a variety of materials and are custom-made to suit each person.
Dentures
Full or partial dentures are used to fill spaces. They are of plastic or plastic and metal construction and are removable.
Dry mouth
This is caused by a decreased flow of saliva. This can be a symptom of many different problems including old age. The risk of dental decay and gum disease is increased. Your dentist can advise and treat as necessary.
Extractions
The removal of diseased teeth which cannot be restored. Extractions are also carried out for orthodontic reasons. In this case healthy teeth may be removed to provide space in crowded arches.
Fillings
These are used to repair decayed or broken teeth. White or silver fillings are available.
Fissure sealants
A protective plastic coat applied to the biting surface of back teeth. Treatment is totally painless and should be carried out as soon as the permanent back teeth appear.
Flossing
This is the use of dental floss or tape to clean between teeth.
Fluoride
Fluoride greatly helps dental health by strengthening tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Fluoride is found in, or can be added to water, toothpastes, mouthwashes, gels, drops or tablets. Your dentist should be consulted on the use of fluoride.
Gum disease (Gingivitis)
This is swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. Visiting the dentist regularly can detect and treat this before permanent damage and loss of teeth and supporting tissue occurs.
Halitosis (Bad breath)
This is a common problem and there are many causes. These can be dental or medical in origin. A visit to the dentist can help detect and determine the best treatment.
Implants
A titanium metal rod placed into the jawbone to support one or more false teeth. Unfortunately, treatment is complex and expensive. Ask for further details.
Mouth cancer
Nearly 2000 people die each year from mouth cancer. If detected it can be treated and cured. Seeing your dentist could save your life!
Plaque
This is an invisible film of bacteria which causes tooth decay and gum inflammation if not regularly removed.
Root canal treatment (Endodontics)
This is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth is infected through decay or injury. Several appointments may be required to clean and fill the canals. The only other alternative may be extraction.
Sensitivity
A sharp pain brought on by cold. This affects most people at some point in life.The dentist can apply a de-sensitising agent. Use of toothpast specially for sensitive teeth is effective if used routinely.
Toothache
Pain as the result of tooth or gum disease. Consult your dentist for advice and treatment.
Toothcare
This is the use of toothbrush, toothpaste and floss to prevent decay. A careful diet and regular visits to the dentist are also important.
Tooth jewellery
Twinkles and gems of various shape, size, design and colour which are stuck to the tooth surface with a dental adhesive.
Tooth whitening (or bleaching)
This involves the application of a whitening product to the teeth. Through time and repeated use the existing natural colour can be lightened.
Ulcers
Sores that appear in the mouth. 60% of the population suffer from recurrent ulcers. There are several causes and if in doubt you should consult your dentist who will advise and treat if necessary
Veneers
This is a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth. Veneers can improve the colour shape and position. Some minimal preparation of the tooth may be required.
White fillings
These are used on the sides of back or front teeth where silver fillings are undesirable. Some white fillings are available on the NHS. However, it is also possible to replace silver fillings in back teeth. This treatment can only be carried out privately.
Wisdom teeth
These are the last teeth to come through. Sometimes there is insufficient room for them. Regular check-ups will avoid or ease problems.
X-rays
Used as an aid to detection of dental problems.
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