Dental A-Z

The overlapping of adjacent teeth.

A temporary denture fitted immediately after teeth have been extracted.

Root canal treatment carried out and completed at one visit following the removal of the pulp tissues.

The introduction of vaccines to encourage the production of antibodies which give resistance to a disease or illness.

A tooth that is malpositioned so that it is growing sideways into another tooth or bone. Often associated with wisdom teeth which may be partially erupted or submerged beneath the gum.

The insertion of titanium posts into the jaw bone onto which crowns are fixed. The discovery that Titanium could be implanted into bone was made in Sweden by Professor Branemark in the 1970s. Given the right clinical conditions he found that cylinders of titanium could be implanted into human bone and after a few months they become inseparable.

A negative or mould of a tooth or teeth that is taken in order to make an accurate replica or die in a durable material on which to make a prosthesis (denture, crown, bridge etc.). The impression materials most commonly used are made from alginate.

The teeth at the front of the mouth are known as the central and lateral incisors. They cut food. There are eight in each of the deciduous and permanent sets of teeth.

A hardened surface of tissue. The condition is associated with cancerous growths and lesions where the tissues may become tightly bound and rigid.

A procedure to restore teeth. When cavities become too large and an ordinary filling is not strong enough to cope with the required biting forces the dentist will need to have stronger fillings made in the laboratory. Inlay - fits inside the tooth Onlay - fits over the tooth They are made of various substances e.g. gold, porcelain, etc and last for about 10 to 15 years. They are cemented or bonded to the tooth.

The covering of dental costs by regular payments. There are various schemes available: capitation, insurance and cash plans. Capitation - Premiums are calculated based on the patients dental condition so, those with poor teeth can expect to pay a higher premium. Many plans will require dental fitness before acceptance and contain provisions for additional charges such as laboratory fees where crowns, bridges, dentures etc. are concerned. Expensive items such as implants are excluded. Insurance - These low cost schemes provide a generous cash benefit for the restoration of teeth in the event of damage from an accident. Benefit for the treatment of oral cancer is usually also included. Advanced materials and dental technology in the form of titanium implants can bring about the most incredible restorative transformation. This treatment is expensive and not available under the NHS. So insurance cover is an attractive purchase. Dental Cash Plans - Similar to Hospital Cash Plans where a number of dental conditions attract cash benefits.

Lack of blood supply to the tissues which become whitened or blanched.

UKAS Accredited Practices (ISO 9000) An audit mechanism that confirms that a dental practice has met all the practice management criteria that are outlined in the ISO9000 Series quality management systems. Dental practices that display the Royal Crown have demonstrated their commitment to best practice and are justifiably proud of their achievement.