The loss of the alveolar bone which supports a tooth. This may be due to periodontal infection, endodontic infection, or trauma if this is left untreated it results in loss of the tooth. If the tooth is missing the loss of the residual bone is known as disuse atrophy.  

See orthodontics. These are the metal or ceramic brackets which are bonded (glued) to the teeth to allow movement of the teeth.

Usually use to indicate a fixed or permanent tooth replacement. It is supported by one or more teeth (called abutments) on either side of a missing tooth which is called a pontic. It uses teeth on either side of the space to support the missing tooth. Bridges may be made out of gold or porcelain over a metal base, or …

A non-invasive screening tool to determine if an area needs a surgical biopsy. A small brush is used to remove the superficial skin cells which are then evaluated microscopically to see if there are any abnormal cells which would indicate the need for further evaluation.

The act of clenching and grinding ones teeth. This may be voluntary or involuntary (subconsciously) and can be damaging to teeth and or implants.

Indicates direction. It indicates toward the lips or cheeks. The Buccal surface of the tooth is that part of the tooth which faces the lips or cheeks.

A restoration which is used to replace missing tooth structure in preparation for the tooth to support a replacement cap or crown (aka a core build-up). It may be connected to the tooth via undercuts in the tooth, via pins placed into the tooth, bonded (i.e. chemically “glued”) to the tooth, or via a post inserted in to the root …