GLOSSARY
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K |L | M | N | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z-A-
abscess: Acute or chronic localized inflammation with a collection of pus, associated with tissue destruction and, frequently, swelling; usually secondary to infection.
- periapical abscess: Acute or chronic inflammation and pus formation at the end of a tooth root in the alveolar bone, secondary to infection.
- periodontal abscess: Abscess of the gingiva or periodontal tissue secondary to periodontal infection, as contrasted to periapical abscess or periradicular abscess.
- periradicular abscess: Acute or chronic inflammation around a tooth root in the alveolar bone, secondary to infection.
acid etching: Use of an acidic chemical substance to prepare the tooth enamel and or dentin surface to provide retention for bonding.
adhesive: Any substance that joins or creates close adherence of two or more surfaces.
adult dentition: The permanent teeth of adulthood that either replace or are added to the primary dentition.
adverse selection: A statistical condition within a group when there is a greater demand for dental services and/or more services necessary than the average expected for that group.
allogenic: Belonging to the same species, but genetically different. See “graft.” alloplastic: Refers to synthetic material often used for tissue augmentation.
allowable charge: The maximum dollar amount on which benefit payment is based for each dental procedure.
alternate benefit: A provision in a dental plan contract that allows the third-party payer to determine the benefit based on an alternative procedure that is generally less expensive than the one provided or proposed.
alveolar: Referring to the bone to which a tooth is attached.
alveoloplasty: Surgical procedure for recontouring alveolar structures, sometimes in preparation for a prosthesis.
amalgam: An alloy used in direct dental restorations.
analgesia: Loss of pain sensations without loss of consciousness.
anesthesia: A patient’s level of consciousness is determined by the provider and not the route of administration of anesthesia. State dental boards regulate the use of anesthesia techniques.
- local anesthesia: The elimination of sensation, especially pain, in one part of the body by the topical application or regional injection of a drug.
- regional anesthesia: A term used for local anesthesia. See “local anesthesia.”
- conscious sedation: A minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the patient’s ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical stimulation or verbal command and that is produced by a pharmacological or non-pharmacological method or a combination thereof.
- deep sedation: An induced state of depressed consciousness accompanied by partial loss of protective reflexes, including the inability to continually maintain an airway and respond purposefully to physical stimulation or verbal command, and is produced by a pharmacologic or non-pharmacological method or a combination thereof.
- general anesthesia: An induced state of unconsciousness, accompanied by a partial or complete loss of protective reflexes, including the inability to continually maintain an airway independently and respond purposefully to physical stimulation or verbal command, produced by a pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic method or a combination thereof.
- enteral: Any technique of administration in which the agent is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract or oral mucosa (e.g., oral, rectal, sublingual).
- parenteral: A technique of administration in which the drug bypasses the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., intramuscular [IM], intravenous [IV], intranasal [IN], submucosal [SM], subcutaneous [SC], intraocular [IO].)
anterior: Refers to the teeth and tissues located towards the front of the mouth; maxillary and mandibular incisors and canines. The designation of permanent anterior teeth in the Universal tooth numbering system include teeth 6 through 11 (maxillary), and 22 through 27 (mandibular); primary teeth in the Universal tooth numbering system are designated C through H (maxillary), and M through R (mandibular).
apicoectomy: Amputation of the apex of a tooth.
apex: The tip or end of the root end of the tooth.
apexification: The process of induced root development.
arch, dental: The curved composite structure of the natural dentition and the residual ridge, or the remains thereof, after the loss of some or all of the natural teeth.
areas of oral cavity: A two digit numeric system used to report regions of the oral cavity to third-party payers.
arthrogram: A diagnostic X-ray technique used to view bone structures following injection of a contrast medium into a joint.
assignment of benefits: A procedure whereby a beneficiary/patient authorizes the administrator of the program to forward payment for a covered procedure directly to the treating dentist.
attending dentist’s statement: Also known as the ADA Dental Claim Form. A form used to report dental procedures to a third-party payer. The claim form was developed by the American Dental Association.
avulsion: Separation of tooth from its socket due to trauma. See “evulsion.”
-B-
behavior management: Techniques or therapies used to control the actions of a
patient who is receiving dental treatment.
beneficiary: A person who is eligible for benefits under a dental benefit
contract. See also covered person, insured, and member.
benefit: The amount payable by a third party toward the cost of various
covered dental services or the dental service or procedure covered by the plan.
benefit booklet: A booklet or pamphlet provided to the subscriber that contains
a general explanation of the benefits and related provisions of the dental benefit program. Also known as a
“summary plan description.”
benefit plan summary: The description or synopsis of employee benefits required by
ERISA to be distributed to the employees.
benign: The mild or non-threatening character of an illness or the non-malignant character of a neoplasm.
bicuspid: A premolar tooth; a tooth with two cusps.
bilateral: Occurring on, or pertaining to, both right and left sides.
biopsy: Process of removing tissue for histologic evaluation.
birthday rule: Coordination of benefits regulation stipulating that the primary payer
of benefits for dependent children is determined by the parent who has the earlier date of birth by month and day,
without regard to the year of birth.
bitewing radiograph: Interproximal view radiograph of the coronal portion of the tooth.
bleaching: Process of lightening of the teeth, usually using a chemical oxidizing
agent and sometimes in the presence of heat.
bonding: Process by which two or more components are made integral by mechanical
and/or chemical adhesion at their interface.
bounded tooth space: A space which has a tooth on each side.
bridge: See “fixed partial denture” and/or “removable partial denture.”
bruxism: The parafunctional grinding of the teeth.
buccal: Pertaining to or around the cheek (as in the buccal surface of a posterior tooth).
bundling of procedures: The systematic combining of distinct dental procedures by third-party
payers that results in a reduced benefit for the patient/beneficiary.
-C-
calculus: Hard deposit of mineralized material adhering to crowns and/or roots of teeth.
canal: A relatively narrow tubular passage or channel.
- root canal: Space inside the root portion of a tooth containing pulp tissue;
- mandibular canal: The passage which transmits vessels and nerves through the jaw to branches that distributes them to the teeth.
cavity: Decay in tooth caused by caries; also referred to as carious lesion.
cement base: Material used under a filling to replace lost tooth structure.
cementum: Hard connective tissue covering the tooth root.
cephalometric radiograph: A radiographic head film utilized in the scientific study of the measurements of the head with relation to specific reference points.
claim form: The form used to file for benefits under a dental benefit program.
claimant: Person who files a claim for benefits. May be the patient or the certificate holder.
Classification of Metals: (Source: ADA Council on Scientific Affairs) The noble metal classification system has been adopted as a more precise method of reporting various alloys used in dentistry. The alloys are defined on the basis of the percentage of metal content:
- high noble: Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd), and/or Platinum (Pt) 60% (with at least 40% Au);
- titanium and titanium alloys: Titanium (Ti) 85%
- noble: Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd), and/or Platinum (Pt) 25%;
- predominantly base: Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd), and/or Platinum (Pt) 25%.
clenching: The clamping and pressing of the jaws and teeth together in centric occlusion, frequently associated with psychological stress or physical effort.
closed reduction: The re-approximation of segments of a fractured bone without open surgery.
complete series: An entire set of radiographs; full mouth radiographs.
composite: A dental restorative material made up of disparate or separate parts (e.g. resin and quartz particles).
compound fracture: Break in bone which is exposed to external contamination.
contiguous: Adjacent; touching.
copayment: Beneficiary’s share of the dentist’s fee.
coping: A thin covering of the coronal portion of the tooth usually without anatomic conformity. It can be used as a definitive restoration or as part of a transfer procedure.
core buildup: The replacement of a part or all of the crown of a tooth whose purpose is to provide a base for the retention of an indirectly fabricated crown.
coronal: Refers to the crown of a tooth.
coverage: Benefits available to an individual covered under a dental benefit plan.
covered charges: Charges for services rendered or supplies furnished by a dentist that qualify as covered services and are paid for in whole or in part by the dental benefit program. May be subject to deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, annual or lifetime maximums, as specified by the terms of the contract.
covered person: An individual who is eligible for benefits under a dental benefit program.
covered services: Services for which payment is provided under the terms of the dental benefit contract.
cracked tooth syndrome: A collection of symptoms characterized by transient acute pain experienced when chewing.
crown:
- abutment crown: Artificial crown serving for the retention or support of a dental prosthesis;
- anatomical crown: That portion of tooth normally covered by, and including, enamel;
- artificial crown: Restoration covering or replacing the major part, or the whole of the clinical crown of a tooth;
- clinical crown: That portion of a tooth not covered by tissues.
curettage: Scraping and cleaning the walls of a cavity or gingival pocket.
cusp: Pointed or rounded eminence on or near the masticating surface of a tooth.
cuspid: Single cusped tooth located between the incisors and bicuspids.
cyst: Pathological cavity, usually lined with epithelium, containing fluid or soft matter.
- odontogenic cyst: Cyst derived from the epithelium of odontogenic tissue (developmental, primordial).
- periapical cyst: Cyst at the apex of a tooth with a non-vital pulp.
-D-
debridement: Removal of subgingival and/or supragingival plaque and calculus
which obstructs the ability to perform an evaluation; removal of contused and devitalized tissue from a wound surface.
decay: The lay term for carious lesions in a tooth; decomposition of tooth structure.
deciduous: Having the property of falling off or shedding; a name used for the primary teeth.
deductible: The amount of dental expense for which the beneficiary is responsible before a
third-party will assume any liability for payment of benefits. Deductible may be an annual or one-time charge, and may
vary in amount from program to program. See family deductible.
dental insurance: A plan that financially assists in the expense of treatment and care of
dental disease and accidents to teeth.
dentin: That part of the tooth that is beneath enamel and cementum.
dentition: The teeth in the dental arch.
- adolescent dentition: Refers to the stage of permanent dentition prior to cessation of growth.
- deciduous dentition: Refers to the deciduous or primary teeth in the dental arch.
- permanent dentition (adult dentition): Refers to the permanent teeth in the dental arch.
- transitional dentition: Refers to a mixed dentition; begins with the appearance of the permanent first molars and ends with the exfoliation of the deciduous teeth.
denture base: That part of a denture that makes contact with soft tissue and retains the artificial teeth.
dependents: Generally spouse and children of covered individual, as defined by terms of the dental benefit contract.
diagnostic cast: Plaster or stone model of teeth and adjoining tissues; also referred to as study model.
diastema: A space, such as one between two adjacent teeth in the same dental arch.
direct pulp cap: Procedure in which the exposed pulp is covered with a dressing or cement with the aim of maintaining pulp vitality.
direct restoration: A restoration fabricated inside the mouth.
discectomy: Excision of the intra-articular disc of a joint.
displaced tooth: A partial evulsion of a tooth; may be mesial, distal, facial, lingual or incisal.
distal: Toward the back of the dental arch (or away from the midline).
dressing: Medication, bandages or other therapeutic material applied to a wound.
dry socket: Localized inflammation of the tooth socket following extraction due to infection or loss of blood clot; osteitis.
-E-
edentulous: Without teeth.
eligibility date: The date an individual and/or dependents become eligible for benefits under
a dental benefit contract. Often referred to as effective date.
eligible person: See “beneficiary.”
enamel: Hard calcified tissue covering dentin of the crown of tooth.
endodontist: A dental specialist who limits his/her practice to treating disease and
injuries of the pulp and associated periradicular conditions.
enrollee: Individual covered by a benefit plan. See “beneficiary.”
enteral: Any technique of administration of an agent in which the agent is absorbed
through the gastrointestinal tract or oral mucosa (e.g., oral, rectal, sublingual).
EOB: See “explanation of benefits.”
equilibration: Reshaping of the occlusal surfaces of teeth to create harmonious contact
relationships between the upper and lower teeth; also known as occlusal adjustment.
established patient: Patient who has a record of recent care.
evulsion: Separation of the tooth from its socket due to trauma. See “avulsion.”
excision: Surgical removal of bone or tissue.
exclusions: Dental services not covered under a dental benefit program.
exfoliative: Refers to a thin layer of epidermis shed from the surface.
exostosis: Overgrowth of bone. See “torus.”
explanation of benefits (EOB): A written statement to a beneficiary from a third-party payer,
after a claim has been reported, indicating the benefit/charges covered or not covered by the dental benefit plan.
extraoral: Outside the oral cavity.
extracoronal: Outside the crown of a tooth.
extraction: The process or act of removing a tooth or tooth parts.
exudate: A material usually resulting from inflammation or necrosis that contains fluid,
cells, and/or other debris.
-F-
facial: The surface of a tooth directed toward the cheeks or lips (i.e., the buccal and
labial surfaces) and opposite the lingual surface.
family deductible: A deductible that is satisfied by combined expenses of all covered
family members. For example, a program with $25 deductible may limit its application to a maximum of three deductibles,
or $75 for the family, regardless of the number of family members. See “deductible.”
fascial: Related to a sheet or band of fibrous connective tissue enveloping, separating or
binding together muscles, organs and other soft tissue structures of the body.
fee schedule: A list of the charges established or agreed to by a dentist for specific dental services.
filling: A lay term used for the restoring of lost tooth structure by using materials
such as metal, alloy, plastic or porcelain.
fixed partial denture: A prosthetic replacement of one or more missing teeth cemented
or attached to the abutment teeth or implant replacements.
flexible spending account: Employee reimbursement account primarily funded with employee
designated salary reductions. Funds are reimbursed to the employee for health care (medical and/or dental), dependent
care, and/or legal expenses, and are considered a nontaxable benefit.
foramen: Natural opening into or through bone.
fracture: The breaking of a part, especially of a bony structure; breaking of a tooth.
frenum: Muscle fibers covered by a mucous membrane that attaches the cheek, lips and/or tongue
to associated dental mucosa.
furcation: The anatomic area of a multirooted tooth where the roots diverge.
-G-
genetic test: Laboratory technique used to determine if a person has a genetic condition
or disease or is likely to get the disease.
gingiva: Soft tissues overlying the crowns of unerupted teeth and encircling
the necks of those that have erupted.
gingivitis: Inflammation of gingival tissue without loss of connective tissue.
gingivectomy: The excision or removal of gingiva.
gingivoplasty: Surgical procedure to reshape gingiva.
glass ionomer: Glass polyalkenoate cement: material in which the solid powdered phase
is a fluoride-containing aluminosilicate glass powder. The material is translucent and can be used as a restoration,
a liner and a luting agent.
gold foil: A very thin, flexible sheet of metal. One of the oldest restorative techniques,
it is compacted or condensed into a retentive cavity form.
graft: A piece of tissue or alloplastic material placed in contact with tissue to repair
a defect or supplement a deficiency.
- allogenic graft: Having cell types that are antigenetically distinct from patient’s cell type (usually freeze dried and/or irradiated).
- autogenous graft: Taken from one part of a patient’s body and transferred to another.
- homologous graft: A graft transplanted from a donor of the same species.
-H-
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA): A federal law that requires
all health plans, including ERISA, health care clearinghouses and any dentist who transmits health information in an electronic
transaction, to use a standard format and the ADA procedure codes. Providers’ paper transactions are not subject to this
requirement.
hemisection: Surgical separation of a multi-rooted tooth.
histopathology: The study of disease processes at the cellular level.
hyperplastic: Pertaining to an abnormal increase in the number of cells in an organ or a
tissue with consequent enlargement.
-I-
imaging, diagnostic: This would include, but is not limited to, CAT scans, MRIs,
photographs, radiographs, etc.
immediate denture: Prosthesis constructed for placement immediately after removal of remaining natural teeth.
impacted tooth: An unerupted or partially erupted tooth that is positioned against another
tooth, bone, or soft tissue so that complete eruption is unlikely.
implant: Material inserted or grafted into tissue.
- dental implant: A device specially designed to be placed surgically within or on the mandibular or maxillary bone as a means of providing for dental replacement.
- endosteal (endosseous): device placed in the alveolar or basal bone.
- eposteal (subperiosteal): framework designed and fabricated to fit on the surface of the bone of the mandible or maxilla with permucosal extensions.
- transosteal (transosseous): device with threaded posts penetrating both the superior and inferior cortical bone plates of the mandibular symphysis and exiting through the permucosa. It may be intraoral or extraoral.
incisal: Pertaining to the biting edges of the incisor and cuspid teeth.
incisal angle: One of the angles formed by the junction of the incisal and the mesial or distal surfaces of an anterior tooth; called the mesioincisal and distoincisal angle respectfully.
incision and drainage: The procedure of incising a fluctuant mucosal lesion to allow for the release of fluid from the lesion.
incisor: A tooth for cutting or gnawing; located in the front of the mouth in both jaws.
indirect pulp cap: Procedure in which the nearly exposed pulp is covered with a protective dressing to protect the pulp from additional injury and to promote healing and repair via formation of secondary dentin.
indirect restoration: A restoration fabricated outside the mouth.
inlay: An indirect intracoronal restoration; a dental restoration made outside of the oral cavity to correspond to the form of the prepared cavity, which is then luted into the tooth.
insured: Person covered by the program. See “beneficiary.”
intentional reimplantation: The intentional removal, radicular repair and replacement of a tooth into its alveolus.
interproximal: Between the adjoining surfaces of adjacent teeth in the same arch.
intracoronal: Referring to “within” the crown of a tooth.
intraoral: Inside the mouth.
-J-
jaw: A common name for either the maxilla or the mandible.
-K-
keratin: A protein present in all cuticular structures of the body, such as hair, epidermis and horns.
keratinized gingiva: The oral surface of the gingiva extending from the mucogingival junction to
the gingival margin. In gingival health, the coronal portion of the sulcular epithelium may also be keratinized.
-L-
labial: Pertaining to or around the lip. See “facial.”
lesion: An injury or wound; area of diseased tissue.
limitations: Restrictive conditions stated in a dental benefit contract, such as age,
length of time covered, and waiting periods, which affect an individual’s or group’s coverage. The contract may
also exclude certain benefits or services, or it may limit the extent or conditions under which certain services
are provided. See “exclusions.”
line angle: An angle formed by the junction of two planes; used to designate the junction
of two surfaces of a tooth, or of two walls of a tooth cavity preparation.
lingual: Pertaining to or around the tongue; surface of the tooth directed toward the
tongue; opposite of facial.
locus: A site or location.
-M-
maintenance, periodontal: Therapy for preserving the state of health of the periodontium.
malar: Pertaining to the cheek bone; see zygomatic bone.
malignant: Having the properties of dysplasia, invasion, and metastasis.
malocclusion: Improper alignment of biting or chewing surfaces of upper and lower teeth.
mandible: The lower jaw.
Maryland bridge: Fixed partial denture featuring conservative retainers which are resin bonded to abutments.
maxilla: The upper jaw.
member: An individual enrolled in a dental benefit program. See “beneficiary.”
mesial: Toward the midline of the dental arch; opposite of distal.
metals, classification of: The noble metal classification system has been adopted as a
more precise method of reporting various alloys used in dentistry. The alloys are defined on the basis of the percentage
of metal content.
- high noble: Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd), and/or Platinum (Pt) 60% (with at least 40% Au)
- titanium and titanium alloys: Titanium (Ti) 85%.
- noble: Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd), and/or Platinum (Pt) 25%.
- predominantly base: Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd), and/or Platinum (Pt) 25%.
microorganisms: A minute living organism, such as a bacterium, fungus, yeast, virus or rickettsia.
molar: Teeth posterior to the premolars (bicuspids) on either side of the jaw; grinding teeth, having large crowns and broad chewing surfaces.
moulage: A positive reproduction of a body part formed on a cast from a negative impression.
mouthguard: An intraoral device worn to reduce the potential for injury to the teeth and associated structures.
mucous membrane: Lining of the oral cavity as well as other canals and cavities of the body; also called “mucosa”.
-N-
non-autogenous: A graft from donor other than patient.
-O-
obturator: A disc or plate which closes an opening; a prosthesis that closes an opening in the palate.
occlusal: Pertaining to the biting surfaces of the premolar and molar teeth or contacting
surfaces of opposing teeth or opposing occlusion rims.
occlusal radiograph: An intraoral radiograph made with the film being held between the occluded teeth.
occlusion: Any contact between biting or chewing surfaces of maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) teeth.
odontogenic: Refers to tooth-forming tissues.
odontoplasty: Adjustment of tooth length, size, and/or shape; includes removal of enamel projections.
onlay: An indirect restoration made outside the oral cavity that overlays a cusp or
cusps of the tooth, which is then luted to the tooth.
open enrollment: The annual period in which employees can select from a choice of benefit programs.
open reduction: Re-approximation of fractured bony segments accomplished through cutting
the adjacent soft tissues and bone to allow direct access.
operculectomy: Removal of the operculum.
operculum: The flap of tissue over an unerupted or partially erupted tooth.
oral: Pertaining to the mouth.
oral and maxillofacial surgeon: A dental specialist whose practice is limited to the diagnosis,
surgical and adjunctive treatment of diseases, injuries, deformities, defects and esthetic aspects of the oral and maxillofacial
regions.
oral pathology: The specialty of dentistry and pathology concerned with recognition,
diagnosis, investigation and management of diseases of the oral cavity, jaws, and adjacent structures.
oral radiology: The specialty of dentistry and discipline of radiology concerned with the
production and interpretation of images and data produced by all modalities of radiant energy used for the diagnosis
and management of diseases, disorders and conditions of the oral and maxillofacial region.
orthodontist: A dental specialist whose practice is limited to the interception and treatment
of malocclusion of the teeth and their surrounding structures.
orthognathic: Functional relationship of maxilla and mandible.
orthotic device: Apparatus used to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities or to
improve the function of movable parts of the body.
osteoplasty: Surgical procedure that modifies the configuration of bone.
osteotomy: Surgical cutting of bone.
overdenture: A removable prosthetic device that overlies and may be supported by
retained tooth roots or implants.
-P-
palate: The hard and soft tissues forming the roof of the mouth that separates the oral and nasal cavities.
palliative: Action that relieves pain but is not curative.
panoramic radiograph: An extraoral radiograph on which the maxilla and mandible are depicted
on a single film.
partial denture: Usually refers to a prosthetic device that replaces missing teeth.
See “fixed partial denture” or “removable partial denture.”
patient: An individual who has established a professional relationship with a dentist
for the delivery of dental health care. For matters relating to communication of information and consent, this
term includes the patient’s parent, caretaker, guardian, or other individual as appropriate under state law and
the circumstances of the case.
payer: In health care, generally refers to entities, other than the patient, that finance
or reimburse the cost of health services. In most cases, refers to insurance carriers, other third-party payers, and/or
health plan sponsors (employers or unions).
pediatric dentist: A dental specialist whose practice is limited to treatment of children
from birth through adolescence; formerly known as a pedodontist.
pedodontist: See “pediatric dentist.”
periapical: The area surrounding the end of the tooth root.
periapical radiograph: A radiograph made by the intraoral placement of film for
disclosing the apices of the teeth.
pericoronal: Around the crown of a tooth.
periodontal: Pertaining to the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth.
periodontal disease: Inflammatory process of the gingival tissues and/or periodontal membrane
of the teeth, resulting in an abnormally deep gingival sulcus, possibly producing periodontal pockets and loss of
supporting alveolar bone.
periodontal pocket: Pathologically deepened gingival sulcus; a feature of periodontal disease.
periodontist: A dental specialist whose practice is limited to the treatment of diseases of the
supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth.
periodontitis: Inflammation and loss of the connective tissue of the supporting or surrounding
structure of teeth with loss of attachment.
periradicular: Surrounding a portion of the root of the tooth.
permanent dentition: Refers to the permanent or adult teeth in the dental arch.
pin: A metal rod, cemented or driven into dentin to aid in retention of a restoration.
plaque: A soft, sticky substance that accumulates on teeth composed largely of
bacteria and bacterial derivatives.
pontic: The term used for an artificial tooth on a fixed partial denture (bridge).
porcelain/ceramic: Refers to those non-metal, non-resin inorganic refractory compounds
processed at high temperatures (600ºC/1112ºF and above) and pressed, polished or milled – including porcelains, glasses,
and glass-ceramics.
post: An elongated projection fitted and cemented within the prepared root canal,
serving to strengthen and retain restorative material and/or a crown restoration.
posterior: Refers to teeth and tissues towards the back of the mouth (distal to the canines);
maxillary and mandibular premolars and molars. The designation of permanent posterior teeth in the Universal tooth
numbering system include teeth 1 through 5 and 12 through 16 (maxillary), and 17 through 21 and 28 through 32 (mandibular);
primary teeth in the Universal tooth numbering system are designated A, B, I and J (maxillary), and K, L, S and T (mandibular).
preauthorization: Statement by a third-party payer indicating that proposed treatment will
be covered under the terms of the benefit contract. See also “precertification”, “predetermination.”
precision attachment: Interlocking device, one component of which is fixed to an abutment or abutments
and the other is integrated into a fixed or removable prosthesis in order to stabilize and/or retain it.
pre-existing condition: Oral health condition of an enrollee which existed before his/her enrollment
in a dental program.
premedication: The use of medications prior to dental procedures.
premolar: See “bicuspid.”
pretreatment estimate: See “predetermination.”
preventive dentistry: Refers to the procedures in dental practice and health programs that
prevent the occurrence of oral diseases.
primary dentition: The first set of teeth; see “deciduous.”
primary payer: The third-party payer determined to have initial responsibility in a benefit determination.
prior authorization: See “predetermination.”
prophylaxis: Removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the tooth structures. It is intended
to control local irritational factors.
prosthesis: Artificial replacement of any part of the body.
- definitive prosthesis: Prosthesis to be used over an extended period of time.
- dental prosthesis: Any device or appliance replacing one or more missing teeth and/or, if required, associated structures. (This is a broad term which includes abutment crowns and abutment inlays/onlays, bridges, dentures, obturators, gingival prostheses.)
- fixed prosthesis: Non-removable dental prosthesis which is solidly attached to abutment teeth, roots or implants.
- interim prosthesis: A provisional prosthesis designed for use over a limited period of time, after which it is to be replaced by a more definitive restoration.
- removable prosthesis: Dental prosthesis designed to be removed and reinserted by the patient.
provisional: Formed or preformed for temporary purposes or used over a limited period; a temporary or interim solution; usually refers to a prosthesis or individual tooth restoration.
pulp: Connective tissue that contains blood vessels and nerve tissue which occupies the pulp cavity of a tooth.
pulp cap: Covering of an exposed dental pulp with a material to protect it from external conditions.
pulp cavity: The space within a tooth which contains the pulp.
pulpectomy: Complete removal of vital and non-vital pulp tissue from the root canal space.
pulpitis: Inflammation of the dental pulp.
pulpotomy: Surgical removal of a portion of the pulp with the aim of maintaining the vitality of the remaining portion by means of an adequate dressing; pulp amputation.
-Q-
quadrant: One of the four equal sections into which the dental arches can be divided; begins at the midline of the arch and extends distally to the last tooth.
-R-
radicular: Pertaining to the root.
radiographic/surgical implant index: An appliance, designed to relate osteotomy or fixture position
to existing anatomic structures.
radiographs: An image or picture produced on a radiation sensitive film emulsion
by exposure to ionizing radiation, followed by chemical processing of the film.
rebase: Process of refitting a denture by replacing the base material.
reimbursement: Payment made by a third party to a beneficiary or to a dentist on behalf of
the beneficiary, toward repayment of expenses incurred for a service covered by the contractual arrangement.
reimplantation, tooth: The return of a tooth to its alveolus.
reline: Process of resurfacing the tissue side of a denture with new base material.
removable partial denture: A removable partial denture (removable bridge) is a prosthetic
replacement of one or more missing teeth that can be removed by the patient.
resin, acrylic: Resinous material of the various esters of acrylic acid, used as a denture
base material, for trays or for other restorations.
resin-based composite: See “composite.”
retainer:
- orthodontic retainer: Appliance to stabilize teeth following orthodontic treatment.
- prosthodontic retainer: A part of a fixed partial denture that attaches a pontic to the abutment tooth, implant abutment, or implant.
root: The anatomic portion of the tooth that is covered by cementum and is located in the alveolus (socket) where it is attached by the periodontal apparatus; radicular portion of tooth.
residual root: Remaining root structure following the loss of the major portion (over 75%) of the crown.
root canal: The portion of the pulp cavity inside the root of a tooth; the chamber within the root of the tooth that contains the pulp.
root canal therapy: The treatment of disease and injuries of the pulp and associated periradicular conditions.
root planing: A procedure designed to remove cementum and dentin that is rough, and/or permeated by calculus or contaminated with toxins or microorganisms.
rubber dam: A barrier technique used to prevent the passage of saliva or moisture, or to provide an isolated operative field.
-S-
salivary gland: Exocrine glands that produce saliva and empty it into the mouth;
these include the parotid glands, the submandibular glands and the sublingual glands.
scaling: Removal of plaque, calculus, and stain from teeth.
sealant: A resinous material designed to be applied to the occlusal surfaces of
posterior teeth to prevent occlusal caries.
sedative filling: A temporary restoration intended to relieve pain.
semi-precision attachment: A device, one component of which is fixed to an abutment or
abutments and the other is integrated into a fixed or removable prosthesis in order to stabilize and/or retain it.
sextant: One of the six relatively equal sections into which a dental arch can be divided;
tooth numbers 1-5; 6-11; 12-16; 17-21; 22-27; 28-32. Sometimes used for recording periodontal charting.
sialodochoplasty: Surgical procedure for the repair of a defect and/or restoration of
portion of a salivary gland duct.
sialography: Inspection of the salivary ducts and glands by radiograph after the
injection of a radiopaque medium.
sialolithotomy: Surgical procedure by which a stone within a salivary gland or its
duct is removed, either intraorally or extraorally.
site: A term used to describe a single area, position, or locus. A single site is an
area of communication that may involve adjacent teeth. All non-communicating areas are single sites.
space maintainer: A passive appliance, usually cemented in place, that holds teeth in
position until the permanent teeth erupt.
splint: A device used to support, protect, or immobilize oral structures that have
been loosened, replanted, fractured or traumatized. Also refers to devices used in the treatment of temporomandibular
joint disorders.
stomatitis: Inflammation of the membranes of the mouth.
stress breaker: That part of a tooth-borne and/or tissue-borne prosthesis designed to
relieve the abutment teeth and their supporting tissues from harmful stresses.
study model: Plaster or stone model of teeth and adjoining tissues; also referred to as diagnostic cast.
supernumerary teeth: Extra erupted or unerupted teeth that resemble teeth of normal shape.
suture: Stitch used to repair incision or wound.
-T-
temporary removable denture: An interim prosthesis designed for use over limited period of time.
temporomandibular (TMJ): The connecting hinge mechanism between the base of the skull (temporal bone)
and the lower jaw (mandible).
temporomandibular joint dysfunction: Abnormal functioning of temporomandibular joint;
also refers to symptoms arising in other areas secondary to the dysfunction.
third-party: The party to a dental benefit contract that may collect premiums, assume
financial risk, pay claims, and/or provides other administrative services. Also known as administrative agent, carrier,
insurer, underwriter.
third-party payer: An organization other than the patient (first party) or health care
provider (second party) involved in the financing of personal health services.
tissue conditioning: Material intended to be placed in contact with tissues, for a limited
period, with the aim of assisting the return to a healthy condition.
tomography: An X-ray technique that produces a film representing a detailed cross section
of tissue structures at a predetermined depth.
torus: A bony elevation or protuberance of bone. See “exostosis.”
tracheotomy: A surgical procedure to create an opening in the trachea (windpipe).
transitional: Relating to a passage or change from one position, state, phase or concept to another.
transitional dentition: Refers to a mixed dentition; begins with the appearance of the permanent
first molars and ends with the exfoliation of the deciduous teeth.
transplantation of tooth: Transfer of a tooth from one socket to another, either in the same
or a different person.
transseptal: Through or across a septum.
trismus: Restricted ability to open the mouth, usually due to inflammation or fibrosis
of the muscles of mastication.
tuberosity: A protuberance on a bone.
-U-
unerupted: Tooth/teeth that have not penetrated into the oral cavity.
unilateral: One-sided; pertaining to or affecting but one side.
Universal/National Tooth Numbering System: A system that assigns a unique number (from 1-32) to
permanent teeth, and a unique letter (A-T) for primary teeth.
-V-
veneer: In the construction of crowns or pontics, a layer of tooth-colored material,
usually, but not limited to, composite, porcelain, ceramic or acrylic resin, attached to the surface by direct
fusion, cementation, or mechanical retention; also refers to a restoration that is luted to the facial surface
of a tooth.
vertical bitewing: A dental x-ray film with a central projection on which the teeth can close,
holding it in a vertical position for the radiographic examination of several upper and lower teeth simultaneously.
vertical dimension: The vertical height of the face with the teeth in occlusion or acting as stops.
vestibuloplasty: Any of a series of surgical procedures designed to increase relative alveolar ridge height.
viral culture: A collection of specimen for the purpose of incubating a virus for identification.
-W-
waiting period: The period between employment or enrollment in a dental program and the date
when a covered person becomes eligible for benefits.
wax pattern: A wax form that is the positive likeness of an object to be fabricated.
-X-
xerostomia: Decreased salivary secretion that produces a dry and sometimes burning sensation
of the oral mucosa and/or cervical caries.
x-ray: Radiograph.
-Y-
yeast: A general term for a fungus occurring as a unicellular, nucleated organism that usually reproduces by budding. Some yeasts may reproduce by fission, many producing mycelia or pseudomycelia.
-Z-
zygomatic bone: Quadrangular bone on either side of face that forms the cheek prominence. See malar.
