A process popularized by the Wilko brothers which is also called Wilkodontics or Fastortho. It is a procedure which combines a minor periodontal surgery and braces which allows the orthodontist to move the teeth faster. It can reduce the time needed in braces by up to two thirds. This means an orthodontic case which would normally require two years in …

The field of dentistry which deals with the diseases which affect the supporting structures of the teeth and gums, and the replacement of those tissues when they have been lost due to trauma or disease. It is one of the recognized dental specialties by the ADA.

A dentist who has completed a two or three year residency in Periodontics after dental school. They are specially trained to treat the diseases which affect the supporting structures of the teeth. They are also trained to repair or replace tissues which have been lost to disease or trauma including the surgical placement of dental implants.

A destructive infection of the gum and underlying bone. It is gingivitis that has gotten out of control and has started to destroy the connection between the gum and the tooth. It is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums and will result in tooth loss if it is not treated. The infection causes the bone and ligament which hold …

Also know as adult teeth. These are the teeth that erupt after the primary or deciduous teeth. They are also called the adult teeth. They begin with the eruption of the first or 6 year molar around the sixth year of life. This tooth is immediately distal to the primary second molars (Baby teeth “A,J,K,T”) and does not replace a …

A type of surgical saw which vibrates so that it efficiently cuts bone but will not cut soft tissues.

The sticky film of bacteria that continuously grows on the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. It is a biofilm which is gelatinous and must be removed daily by mechanical disruption. Failure to completely remove the plaque will result in its overgrowth and development into a destructive form of plaque.

A term used to describe the space that forms between where the gum is located on a tooth (the gumline) and where the gum and bone actually connect to the tooth below the gumline. It is deeper and inflamed in someone with periodontitis or gum infection. Pocket depths are 1 to 3mm around healthy teeth. Pockets in the 4 to …

The false tooth portion of a fixed bridge. It is the replacement tooth of a bridge and is supported by the adjacent abutment teeth.

A metal or composite rod which is inserted into a tooth following a root canal. It serves as a retentive aid for supporting a core or build-up. Often it is fuse or is one piece with the core. This is known as a post and core.