Goodlettsville Dental Services
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Other Common Dental Terms & Information Adhesive dentistry is a branch of dentistry which mainly deals with adhesion or bonding of the adhesive material or cements to the natural substance of teeth, enamel and dentin. Tooth bonding techniques have various clinical applications including operative and preventive dentistry as well as esthetic and pediatric dentistry, prosthodontics, and orthodontics. Articulator
Types Semi-adjustable articulator An articulator which is adjustable in one or more, but not all of the following areas: condylar angle, Bennett side-shift, incisal and cuspid guidance, and shape of the glenoid fossae and eminintiae. By nature, this sort of articulator’s use is only meaningful if the position of the maxillae are duplicated with respect to the skull. Normally this is achieved by the use of a face-bow. Anatomical articulator An articulator which attempts to reproduce normal mandibular movements during mastication. Adjustable articulator An articulator that can be adjusted to accommodate the many movements and positions of the mandible in relation to the maxilla as recorded in the mouth. Alveolar Ridge A sagittal or side view image of a human head. The alveolar ridge consists of numbers 4 and 5. An alveolar ridge (also known as the alveolar margin) is one of the two jaw ridges either on the roof of the mouth between the upper teeth and the hard palate or on the bottom of the mouth behind the lower teeth. The alveolar ridges contain the sockets (alveoli) of the teeth. They can be felt with the tongue in the area right above the top teeth or below the bottom teeth. Its surface is covered with little ridges. Sounds made with the tongue touching the alveolar ridge while speaking are called alveolar. Examples of alveolar consonants in English are, for instance, [t], [d], [s], [z], [n], [l] like in the words time, dragon, superman, zeal, nasty and lollipop. There are exceptions to this however, such as speakers of the New York Accent who pronounce [t] and [d] at the back of their teeth. When pronouncing these sounds the tongue touches ([t], [d], [n]), or nearly touches ([s], [z]) the upper alveolar ridge which can also be referred to as gum ridge. In many other languages these same consonants are articulated slightly differently, and are often described as dental consonants. In many languages consonants are articulated with the tongue touching or close to the upper alveolar ridge. The former are called alveolar plosives, and the latter alveolar fricatives. Buccal Space The buccal space is the area between the cheek and gums, or between the teeth and the buccal mucosa or buccal membrane. Certain medications are designed to be given bucally (as opposed to orally or sublingually). Buccal (as opposed to oral) administration usually results in a more rapid onset of action, since the medication need not pass through the digestive system and can be absorbed directly through the skin. There is current research on developing buccal morphine and fentanyl, as well as insulin. (See Buccal nerve.) Cementoblast A cementoblast is a biological cell that forms from the follicular cells around the root of a tooth, and whose biological function is cementogenesis, which is the creation of cementum (the hard tissue that covers the root of the tooth). Cementoblasts lay down the organic matrix of cementum which later gets mineralised by minerals from oral fluids. Thus the cementoblasts lay down collagen and secrete osteocalcin and sialoprotein. They possess all the organelles associated with protein synthesis such as RER and Golgi apparatus. The mechanism of differentiation of the cementoblasts is controversial but circumstantial evidence suggests that an epithelium or epithelial component may cause dental follicle cells to differentiate into cementoblasts, characterised by an increase in length. The initially formed cementum in coronal two-thirds of the root is acellular, but when the cementoblasts get trapped in lacunae in their own matrix like bone cells, the cementum is called cellular or secondary cementum and is present only in the apical third of the root. Cervical Loop The cervical loop area: (1) dental follicle cells, (2) dental mesenchyme, (3) Odontoblasts, (4) Dentin, (5) stellate reticulum, (6) outer enamel epithelium, (7)inner enamel epithelium, (8) ameloblasts, (9) enamel. The cervical loop is the location on an enamel organ in a developing tooth where the outer enamel epithelium and the inner enamel epithelium join. The cervical loop is a histologic term indicating a specific epithelial structure at the apical side of the tooth germ, consisting of loosely aggregated stellate reticulum in the center surrounded by stratum intermedium. These tissues are enveloped by a basal layer of epithelium known on the outside of the tooth as outer enamel epithelium and on the inside as inner enamel epithelium. During root formation the inner layers of epithelium disappear and only the basal layers are left creating Hertwig’s Epithelial Root Sheath (HERS). At this point it is usually referred to as HERS instead of the cervical loop to indicate the structural difference. Cervical loop as epithelial stem cell niche It is thought that the central epithelial tissue of the cervical loop, the stellate reticulum, acts as a stem cell reservoir. In continuously growing teeth such as the rodent incisor the original structure of the cervical loop is maintained and no HERS forms. The stem cells provide the epithelial progeny to sustain the continuous growth. Chewable Toothbrush  chewable toothbrushes A chewable toothbrush is a miniature plastic moulded toothbrush that can be used when no water is available. They tend to be very small, but should not be swallowed. They are commonly available from bathroom vending machines. They are available in different flavors such as mint or bubblegum and should be disposed of after use. Cingulum In dentistry, cingulum (Latin: girdle or belt) refers to an anatomical feature of the anterior teeth (incisors and canines). It refers to the portion of the teeth, occurring on the lingual or palatal aspects, that forms a convex protuberance at the cervical third of the anatomic crown. It represents the lingual or palatal developmental lobe of these teeth. Concrescence Concrescence is a condition of teeth where the cementum overlying the roots of at least two teeth join together. The cause can sometimes be attributed to trauma or crowding of teeth. Surgical separation of the teeth may be necessary if one is to be extracted. Curve of Spee In Anatomy, the Curve of Spee (called also von Spee’s curve or "Spee’s curvature") is defined as the curvature of the mandibular occlusal plane beginning at the tip of the lower cuspid and following the buccal cusps of the posterior teeth, continuing to the terminal molar. According an another definition c. of Spee is an anatomic curvature of the occlusal alignment of teeth, beginning at the tip of the lower canine, following the buccal cusps of the natural premolars and molars, and continuing to the anterior border of the ramus. Ferdinand Graf von Spee, German embryologist, (1855–1937) was first to describe anatomic relations of human teeth in the sagittal plane. The pull of the main muscle of mastication the "masseter" is at a perpendicular angle with the curve of Spee to adapt for favorable loading of force on the teeth. The Curve of Spee is, essentially, a series of slipped contact points. It is of importance to orthodontists as it may contribute to an increased overbite. Larry Andrews, in his important paper: Six Keys to Normal Occlusion (1972), stated that a flat or mild curve of Spee was essential to an ideal occlusion. Cusp of Carabelli
The cusp of Carabelli is a heritable feature. Kraus (1951) proposed that homozygosity of a gene is responsible for a pronounced tubercle, whereas the heterozygote shows slight grooves, pits, tubercles or bulge. Later studies showed that the development of this trait is affected by multiple genes. Carabelli’s cusp is most common among Europeans (75-85% of individuals) and rarest in Pacific Islands (35-45%). This cusp may also be found in dogs and cats Dental-Enamel Junction The dental-enamel junction, abbreviated DEJ, is the boundary between the enamel and the underlying dentin that form the solid architecture of a tooth. It is also known as the amelo-dentinal junctio Embrasure (Dentistry) In dentistry, an embrasure is the space that extends from the proximal contact area. If it extends buccally or labially, it is called a buccal or labial embrasure. If it extends lingually, it is called a lingual embrasure. If it extends occlussaly or incisally, it is called an occlusal or incisal embrasure. There is no cervical embrasure as this area is filled with interdental papilla. Size of Embrasures For anterior teeth, the labial embrasure and the lingual embrasure are of the same size. In posterior teeth, the buccal embrasure is narrower than the lingual one. In general, incisal embrasures are wider than the occlusal ones . Function Embrasures provide spillways for food to escape during mastication, reducing the pressure on teeth and allowing for proper massage. Embrasures prevent impaction of food between teeth Enamel Cord The enamel cord, also called enamel septum, is a localization of cells on an enamel organ that appear from the outer enamel epithelium to an enamel knot. The function of the enamel cord and the enamel knot is not known, but they are believed to play a role in the placement of the first cusp developed in a tooth. Enamel Knot The enamel knot is a localization of cells on an enamel organ that appear thickened in the center of the inner enamel epithelium. The enamel knot is frequently associated with an enamel cord. The enamel knot as signaling center The enamel knot is a signaling center of the tooth that provides positional information for tooth morphogenesis and regulates the growth of tooth cusps. The enamel knot produces a range of molecular signals from all the major signaling families, such as Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGF), Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP), Hedgehog (Hh) and Wnt signals. These molecular signals direct the growth of the surrounding epithelium and mesenchyme. Primary and secondary enamel knots The primary enamel knot forms at the tip of the bud during the bud stage of tooth development. This primary enamel knot is removed by apoptosis. Later, secondary enamel knots appear that regulate the formation of the future cusps of the teeth Enamel Lamellae Enamel lamellae are a type of hypomineralized structure in teeth that extend either from the dentinoenamel junction (DEJ) to the surface of the enamel, or visa versa. In essence, they are prominent linear enamel defects, but are of no clinical consequence. These structures contain proteins, proteoglycans, and lipids. Enamel lamellae should not be confused with two similar entities, enamel tufts and enamel spindles. Enamel tufts are small, branching defects that are found only at the DEJ, and so differ from lamellae which can be facing either direction and are strictly linear. Enamel spindles are also linear defects, but they too can be found only at the DEJ, because they are formed by entrapment of odontoblast processes between ameloblasts prior to and during amelogenesis. Enamel Rod An Enamel rod is the basic unit of tooth enamel. The antiquated term is enamel prism. Measuring 4 μm wide to 8 μm high, an enamel rod is a tightly packed, highly organized mass of hydroxyapatite crystals. In cross section, it is best compared to a keyhole with the top, or head, oriented toward the crown of the tooth and the bottom, or tail, oriented toward the root of the tooth. Enamel rods are found in rows along the tooth. Within each row, the long axis of the enamel rod generally is perpendicular to the underlying dentin. In permanent teeth, the enamel rods near the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) tilt slightly more toward the root of the tooth than would be expected. Knowing the orientation of enamel is very important in restorative dentistry because enamel unsupported by underlying dentin is prone to fracture and usually is avoided. The arrangement of crystals within each enamel rod is highly complex. For the most part, the enamel crystals are oriented parallel to the long axis of the rod. The further away the crystals are from the central axis, the more their own orientation diverges. The area around the enamel rod is known as interrod enamel. Interrod enamel has the same composition as the enamel rods. Nonetheless, a histologic distinction is made between the two because crystal orientation is different in each. The crystals lie nearly perpendicular to the enamel rod. Enamel Spindles Enamel spindles are "short, linear defects, found at the dentinoenamel junction (DEJ) and extend into the enamel, often being more prevalent at the cusp tips." The DEJ is the interface of the enamel and the underlying dentin. Because they are "formed by entrapment of odontoblast processes between ameloblasts prior to and during amelogenesis," they cannot be found at the enamel surface protruding inward, as enamel lamellae are often located. Enamel spindles are often confused with two other entities: enamel lamellae and enamel tufts. Lamellae are linear enamel defects that extend from the surface of the enamel towards the DEJ, or visa versa. Enamel tufts are "small, branching defects that are found only at the DEJ, protruding into the enamel towards the enamel surface. Enamel spindles however, are in fact odontoblast processes that extend into the enamel. Enamelin
Enamelin was described in older literature as an EDTA soluble enamel protein. It turned out in recent research to be albumin derived from blood contamination. The current description of enamelin is a protein coded at 4q13.3 and is a modulator for mineral formation and crystal elongation in enamel. Significant proteins in enamel are amelogenins and ameloblastins. Er:YAG Laser Er:YAG lasers are solid-state lasers whose lasing medium is erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Er:Y3Al5O12). Er:YAG lasers typically emit light with a wavelength of 2940 nm, which is infrared. Unlike Nd:YAG lasers, the frequency of Er:YAG lasers is strongly absorbed by water due to atomic resonances. This limits its use in surgery and many other laser applications where water is present. Because of this limitation Er:YAG lasers are far less common than relatives such as Nd:YAG and Er:glass. Er:YAG lasers have been used for laser resurfacing. Example uses include treating acne scarring, deep rhytides, and melasma. In addition to water, Er:YAG laser energy is also absorbed by hydroxyapatite, which makes it a very good laser for cutting bone as well as tissue. Bone surgery applications have been found in oral surgery, dentistry, implant dentistry and otolaryngology Euthymol Euthymol is a brand of antiseptic, fluoride-free toothpaste distributed by Johnson & Johnson that is characterised by its bright pink colour and bituminous taste. It is also notable for its packaging, which is old fashioned, having merely a pattern and the product name. The antiseptic ingredient in Euthymol is thymol. Since it is antiseptic, Euthymol can help with the prevention of mouth ulcers. Fiberotomy A fiberotomy or pericision is an orthodontic surgical procedure designed to sever the Gingival fibers around a tooth. It usually reduces the tendency to relapse of tooth rotations corrected by dental braces or other treatments. The most frequently encountered post-orthodontic problem is the retention of re-established tooth position. Relapse (drifting of the tooth back to its position prior to orthodontic correction) may occur anywhere, but it is often associated with teeth that have undergone rotation (twisting) as part of the orthodontic therapy. A fiberotomy involves the detachment of the fibers that attach the tooth to the bone via the gum. The fibers act much like twisted rubber bands and releasing the tension between the fibers and the tooth reduces the forces that attempt to pull the tooth back to its original position. It is performed near the completion of the orthodontics and is shown to be effective in preventing the relapse of teeth. To perform this procedure, the area around the tooth is numbed and simple cuts are made along the gum to sever the fibers; this procedure is painless as long as the patient takes an Analgesic such as Advil after the numbing has worn off. Filiform Papilla Lingual papillae (singular: papilla) are small prominences on the surface of the tongue. There are four kinds, one of which is the filiform papillae. The filiform papillae are thin, long "V"-shaped cones that don’t contain taste buds but are the most numerous. These papillae are mechanical and not involved in gustation covering most of the dorsum (upper surface). They are small and arranged in lines parallel to the V-shaped row of circumvallate papillae, except at the tip of the tongue where they are aligned transversely. Projecting from their apices are numerous filamentous processes, or secondary papillae. These are of a whitish tint, owing to the thickness and density of the epithelium of which they are composed. This epithelium has undergone a peculiar modification as the cells have become cornified and elongated into dense, imbricated, brush-like processes. They contain also a number of elastic fibers, which render them firmer and more elastic than the papillae of mucous membrane generally. The larger and longer papillae of this group are sometimes termed papillae conicae. Fungiform papillae are found dispersed throughout the filiform papillae. Fungiform Papillae The fungiform papillae are mushroom shaped papillae (projections) on the tongue. They are located on the top (dorsal) surface of the tongue, scattered throughout the filiform papilla but mainly at the tip and lateral margins of the tongue. They have taste buds on their superior (upper) surface which can distinguish the five tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. They have a core of connective tissue. They are innervated by the seventh cranial nerve, more specifically via the submandibular ganglion, chorda tympani, and geniculate ganglion ascending to the solitary nucleus (the sensory component of the Vagus nerve in the brainstem). Glot-Up A Glot-Up is type of dental equipment, something in between a mouth guard and an adult-sized pacifier. It was designed by an Acupuncture and Osteopathy Practice in Barcelona. It is an oral prottusor used mainly to treat TMJ (Temporo Mandibular Joint syndrome) because it relieves the tension from the jaw by replacing the grinding movement (Bruxism or night bruxism) which often causes the dysfunction of the TMJ in the jaw. It is also a tool for use in mobilising the SBS (Sphenobasilar synchondrosis) as the suction acts as a way to manipulate this bone at the base of the skull. Gnarled Enamel Gnarled enamel is a description of enamel seen in histologic sections of a tooth underneath a cusp. The appearance of enamel appears different and very complex under the cusp, but this is not due to a different arrangement of dental tissues. Instead, the enamel still has the same arrangement of enamel rods. The strange appearance results from the lines of enamel rods directed vertically under a cusp and from their orientation in a small circumference. Gnathology Gnathology is the study of masticatory system, including its physiology, functional disturbances, and treatment. Because it is not part of dental school training, most is learned by participating in ‘study clubs" with mentors with much experience. Gnathology is doing extremely accurate dentistry, verifying the work as it progresses, applying all well founded gnathological principles, and rechecking the work continually. Gomphosis Gomphosis is a joint that binds the teeth to bony sockets (dental alveoli) in the maxillary bone and mandible. The fibrous connection between a tooth and its socket is a periodontal ligament. Specifically, the connection is made between the maxillary or mandible to the cementum of the tooth. The motion of a gomphosis is very minimal, though considerable movement can be achieved over time–the basis of using braces to realign teeth. The joint can be considered a synarthrosis or an amphiarthrosis. The gomphosis is the only joint-type in which a bone does not join another bone, as teeth are not technically bone. In modern, more anatomical, joint classification, the gomphosis is simply considered a fibrous joint because the tissue linking the structures is ligamentous. Halimeter A Halimeter is an instrument for measurement of the level of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) in the mouth. Halimeter was introduced in the early 1990s as an adjunct method for determining halitosis (bad breath, oral malodor) levels, alongside human assessment of odor levels (the latter is considered the gold standard). The instrument measures parts per billion levels of hydrogen sulfide and, to a lesser extent, methyl mercaptan, two gases which were previously shown to be associated with bad breath using gas chromatograph by Dr. Joseph Tonzetich in the late 1960s. The Halimeter is manufactured by Interscan Corp. in California, and based on their earlier model 1170 portable sulfide monitor. This was the model used in the two original studies. These studies, conducted for the first time by Dr. Mel Rosenberg, showed a significant correlation between monitor levels and oral malodor scores. The small size, simplicity of use, and price (relative to gas chromatograph) of the Halimeter made it popular among dentists seeking to diagnose and treat bad breath, as well as scientific researchers. Much of the published research on bad breath over the past dozen years has employed this instrument. The electrochemical sensor is sensitive to alcohol vapors, and requires recalibration over time. The Halimeter has been the only VSC monitor for the diagnosis of halitosis for years, but now that its patent has expired, it faces competition from other sulfur monitors recently introduced into the marketplace. Impression A dental impression may be described as an accurate representation of part or all of a person’s dentition and other areas of the mouth. From an imprint of a person’s teeth and gums in wax or plaster, a dental impression forms a "negative" of those teeth and gums, which can then be used to make a cast or model of the dentition. This may be used for the fabrication of dentures, crowns or other prostheses. An impression is carried out by placing a viscous liquid material into the mouth usually in a customised tray. The material then sets to become an elastic solid, and when removed from the mouth retains the shape of the teeth. Common materials used for dental impressions are sodium alginate, polyether and silicones – both condensation-cured silicones and addition-cured silicones, such as polyvinyl siloxane. Historically plaster of Paris, zinc oxide eugenol and agar have been used. Incisor Incisors (from Latin incidere, "to cut") are the first kind of tooth in heterodont mammals. They are located in the premaxilla above and mandible below. Function In many herbivorous or omnivorous mammals, such as the human and the horse, they are adapted for shearing sharply. In cats, the incisors are small; biting off meat is done with the canines and the carnassials. In elephants, the upper incisors are modified into curved tusks, just as is the case with Narwhals, where normally one of them develops into a straight and twisted tusk. The incisors of rodents grow throughout life and are worn by gnawing. Number and types of incisors In humans Humans normally have eight (8) incisors, two of each type. The types of incisors are:
In Non-human animals Among other animals, some other primates, cats and horses have twelve. Rodents have four. Rabbits and hares (lagomorphs) were once considered rodents, but are distinguished by having eight—1 small pair, called "peg teeth" is directly behind the most anterior pair. Inner Enamel Epithelium The inner enamel epithelium, also known as the internal enamel epithelium, is a layer of cells located on the rim nearest the dental papilla of the enamel organ in a developing tooth. This layer is first seen during the bell stage. The location of the enamel organ where the outer and inner enamel epithelium join is called the cervical loop. Interdental Plate The interdental plate refers to the bone-filled mesial-distal region between the teeth. The word "interdental" is a combination of "inter" + "dental" (meaning "between the teeth") which originated in approximately 1870. In paleobiology, the presence or absence of the interdental plate can determine the place of an animal in the evolutionary scale, and paleontologists use the interdental plate when trying to classify a new specimen. Thecodont reptiles and theropod dinosaur fossils have an interdental plate, whereas acrodont reptiles such as Sphenodontia do not. Its presence in Archaeopteryx, an extinct avian, resulted in the proposal of the dinosaur-bird connection. The term can also be used to refer to a manufactured object designed to be placed or worn between the teeth. An example would be a dental prosthetic designed to prevent contact between the teeth while the wearer is sleeping. US patent 6702765 relates to an apparatus designed to measure the pressure exerted by the tongue as a means of diagnosing ailments related to swallowing. Korff Fibers Korff fibers, also von Korff fibers are thick collageneous fibers in the developing tooth that begin in the dental papilla, spiral between the cells of the odontoblast layer, and form the matrix of the dentin. They are 0.1 to 0.2 µm in diameter and take a corkscrew path through the odontoblast layer and become incorporated into the layer of predentin. These fibers are named after German anatomist Karl von Korff (1867-1941). Laser Scalpel A laser scalpel is a scalpel for surgery, cutting or ablating living biological tissue by the energy of laser light. In soft tissue laser surgery, a laser beam ablates or vaporizes the soft tissue with high water content. In ophthalmology excimer lasers are used for changing the shape of the cornea, procedures known as LASIK and LASEK. Other surgical fields where the use of a laser scalpel is common are circumcision, neurosurgery and vascular surgery. Today YAG and CO2 lasers are used, but possible benefits of using the vastly more expensive free electron lasers are being researched. For research use in cell biology, special laser micro-scalpels can make cuts smaller than a single cell. Lentulo Spiral
A lentulo spiral. The notches at left allow it to fit into a slow-speed latch handpiece. A Lentulo spiral is a dental instrument used to properly distribute root canal sealer and cement evenly throughout the root canal system, as when performing endodontic therapy or a post and core cementation. Maillefer’s Lentulo spiral, produced by Dentsply, is the only one licensed to use the Lentulo name; however, the term is generally used to refer to any of the various brands of root canal sealer and cement distributing spirals. Elastic Ligature (Orthodontic)
Self Ligation is an orthodontic term used to describe a bracket with a sliding or rotating mechanism to ligate an archwire. This type of bracket replaces elastic ligatures that are traditionally used. Self ligation typically cuts orthodontic appointment time drastically. Currently, self ligating brackets make up about 10 percent of total bracket sales worldwide. Linea Alba (Cheek) The linea alba (Latin for white line) is a term used in dentistry to describe a horizontal streak on the inner surface of the cheek, level with the biting plane. It usually extends from the commissure to the posterior teeth and can extend to the inner lip mucosa and corners of the mouth. It is a common finding and most likely associated with pressure, frictional irritation, or sucking trauma from the facial surfaces of the teeth. It may be found in individuals who chew tobacco, and may be mistaken for a lesion requiring treatment Lingual Tonsils
The lingual tonsils are rounded masses of lymphatic tissue that cover the posterior region of the tongue. They are on the dorsal surface at the base of the tongue. Their lymphatic tissue are dense and nodular, their surface is covered with stratified squamous epithelium which invaginates as a single crypt into each lingual tonsil. They are partially surrounded by connective tissue placing them in the group of Partially-Encapsulated Lymphatic Organs, tonsils, the only one of its kind. They have associated mucous glands which are drained by ducts directly into the single tonsillar crypt. Luting Agent In dentistry, a luting agent is a viscous material placed between tooth structure and a prosthesis, that hardens through chemical reactions to firmly attach the prosthesis to the tooth structure. Cements as luting agents Numerous dental treatments necessitate attachment of prostheses and appliances to the teeth by means of a luting agent. These include metal, metal-ceramic, composite and ceramic dental restorations; provisional or interim acrylic restorations; laminate veneers for anterior teeth; orthodontic appliances; and pins and posts used for retention of restorations. The word "luting" implies the use of a mouldable substance to seal a space or to cement two components together; hence the term is descriptive of dental cementing agents. Mammelon In dentistry, mammelons refer to an anatomical feature on the incisal edges of teeth. Frequently found on erupting central and lateral incisors, mammelons appear as three little bumps. Since this part of the tooth is the first to wear away from attrition, mammelons may not visible on teeth of older people. Instead, the best chance to see this characteristic is soon after eruption of the tooth into the mouth. Micro Surgical Endodontics Microsurgical Endodontics is that aspect of endodontics which evolved after the introduction of the Surgical Operating Microscope (SOM) to endodontics in the early 1990s. The recent addition of SOM’s to endodontic therapy can allow better visualization and management of the surgical field by endodontists during endodontic procedures through magnification and greatly improved high intensity lighting. SOM’s typically magnify in the 4X to 25X range. The other commonly used magnification aide, through lens eyeglass mounted surgical telescopes, provide 2.5X to 4.5X magnification. Surgical operating microscopes have a steep learning curve and require training, as well as patience and practice to master. Some studies have demonstrated higher success rates in surgical procedures using SOM’s when compared to direct vision. However, use of the surgical operating microscope routinely for endodontic procedures is not considered the standard of care in endodontics. Mouth Prop A mouth prop (also "Bite block") is a wedge-shaped implement used in dentistry for dentists working with children and other patients who have difficulty keeping their mouths open wide and steady during a procedure, or during procedures where the patient is sedated. It has a rubber like texture and is typically made from Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV) material. They come in several different sizes, from pediatric to adult, and are typically ridged as to use the back teeth to hold them in place. Neonatal Line The neonatal line is a particular band of incremental growth lines seen in histologic sections of a deciduous tooth. It belongs to a series of a growth lines in tooth enamel known as the Striae of Retzius. The neonatal line is darker and larger than the rest of the striae of Retzius. It is caused by the different physiologic changes birth and is used to identify enamel formation before and after birth. In forensic dentistry, the neonatal line can be used to distinguish matters such as if a child died before or after birth and approximately how long a child lived after birth. Neonatal Teeth Natal teeth are teeth that are present at birth. Neonatal teeth are teeth that emerge through the gingiva during the first month of life. The incidence of neonatal teeth varies considerably, between 1:700 – 1:30,000 depending on the type of study. ; the highest prevalence is found in the only study that relies on personal examination of patients. Treatment, Massler and Savara recommend "leaving them alone, unless they are causing difficulty to the infant and mother". However some recommend that they be removed as the tooth can cut or amputate the tip of the tong Nikolsky’s Sign Nikolsky’s sign is a clinical dermatological sign, named after Pyotr Nikolsky . Nikolsky’s sign is positive when slight rubbing of the skin results in exfoliation of the skin’s outermost layer. It is almost always present in toxic epidermal necrolysis, A "positive" Nikolsky’s sign is associated with pemphigus vulgaris. Nikolsky’s sign is useful in differentiating between pemphigus vulgaris (where it is present or positive) and bullous pemphigoid (where it is absent) Oral Torus Oral Torus is a legion made of compact bone and occurs along the palate or the mandible inside the mouth. The palatal torus or torus palatinus occurs along the palate, close to the midline, whereas the mandibular torus or torus mandibularis occur along the lingual side of the mandible. Occurrences of tori are more frequent in women then they are in men. Tori are associated with adulthood and rarely appear before the age of 15. The palatal version of tori have a higher occurrence in Native American and Inuit populations. Treatment is not necessary unless they become an obstruction to chewing or prosthetic appliances. Oral Irrigator  Water Pik Osseointegrated Implant Osseointegration of Dental Implants refers to the process of bone growing right up to the implant surface. No soft tissue connects the bone to the surface of the implant. No scar tissue, cartilage or ligament fibers are present between the bone and implant surface. The direct contact of bone and implant surface can be verified microscopically. When Osseointegration occurs, the implant is tightly held in place by the bone. The process typically takes four to six months to occur well enough for the implant dentist to complete the restorations. Definition of osseointegration: It is direct intimate contact between the dental implant surface and bone without having intervening tissues in between. Outer Enamel Epithelium The outer enamel epithelium, also known as the external enamel epithelium, is a layer of cuboidal cells located on the periphery of the enamel organ in a developing tooth. This layer is first seen during the bell stage. The rim of the enamel organ where the outer and inner enamel epithelium join is called the cervical loop Painless Parker Edgar R.R. "Painless" Parker (1871-1951) was a flamboyant street dentist and huckster. He attended Philadelphia Dental College which would become Temple University dental school, and began his practice as a street dentist in New York City. He went on to manage a combination traveling circus/dental clinic, promoting "painless dentistry". At one point he claimed to have pulled 357 teeth in one day, which he strung on a necklace. He legally changed his first name to "Painless", when he was accused of breaking a false advertisement law by claiming that his dentistry was truly painless. In the end, Parker ran about 30 West Coast dental offices, employing over 70 dentists, and grossing $3 million per year. Perikyma Perikymata (Greek plural of perikyma) are the pits around the long microscopical prisms of tooth enamel. They indicate the places where enamel-producing cells used to make contact to neighboring cells and are the result of normal enamel apposition. Perikymata are incremental growth lines that appear on the surface of enamel as a series of grooves. They may disappear as the enamel wears over a period of time. They are thought to indicate the termination of striae of Retzius at the surface of enamel. They can be found on the canines. Pleurodont Pleurodont is a formation of the teeth that are fused (ankylosed) by their sides to the inner surface of the jaw bones. This formation is common in the order Squamata Polyvinyl Siloxane Polyvinyl siloxane (PVS), introduced in the 1970s, is an addition reaction silicone elastomer, used in Dentistry as an impression material. To create the material, simply mix a blue putty with a white putty (both of roughly play-dough consistency) and the chemical reaction begins, in which case you have approximately 3-5 minutes before the final set. Final set is noted when the product rebounds upon touching with a blunt or sharp instrument. Protocone  Right upper molar showing the four main upper molars cusps. The protocone is a cusp of the molars of the upper dentition in hominids. It is found at the mesiolingual area of the tooth. The crests between the cusps are adaptations for slicing food during occlusion or mastication (chewing). Other cusps of the upper dentition of hominids include the paracone, hypocone, and the metacone. Quad Helix
Retromolar Space The retromolar space or retromolar gap is a space at the rear of a mandible, between the back of the last molar and the anterior edge of the ascending ramus where it crosses the alveolar margin. Retromolar gap is found in some Neandertals because they had midfacial prognathism. This caused the lower toothrow to move forward, which led to the retromolar gap. Scope (Mouthwash)
Ingredients Active ingredients of Scope outlast are (taken from bottle): Water, Alcohol, Glycerin, Flavor, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Saccharin, Sodium Benzoate, Cetylpyridinium Chloride, Benzoic Acid, Blue 1, Yellow 5 Sialogram Sialogram or sialography is imaging of the salivary glands using x-ray Technique A baseline radiograph of the required salivary gland would be taken , a cannula then is inserted in this salivary gland duct’s opening in the mouth, then a Radio-opaque fluid (Contrast medium) is injected in the duct through a small tube. A series of radiographs would then be taken to determine the flow of the fluid , identify any obstructions and its location , the rate of fluid excretion from the gland. Usually the radiographs taken are lateral oplique views of the face as Orthopantomogram’s are not useful for the purpose of locating the area due to superimpositions and the way they are taken to put the teeth in the main field. Stellate Reticulum The stellate reticulum is a group of cells located in the center of the enamel organ of a developing tooth. These cells are star shaped and synthesize glycosaminoglycans. As glycosamingoglycans are produced, water is drawn in between the cells and stretch them apart. As they are moved further away from one another, the stellate reticulum maintain contact with one another through desmosomes, resulting in their unique appearance. Stratum Intermedium The stratum intermedium in a developing tooth is a layer of two or three cells between the inner enamel epithelium and the newly forming cells of the stellate reticulum. It first appears during the early bell stage of tooth development, at around the 14th week of intrauterine life. The stratum intermedium has a notably high alkaline phosphatase activity. This layer, along with the inner enamel epithelium, is responsible for the tooth enamel formation. It is a part of the dental organ. Striae of Retzius The Striae of Retzius are incremental growth lines seen in enamel and are results of enamel’s development. When viewed microscopically in cross-section, they appear as concentric rings. In a longitudinal section, they appear as a series of dark bands. The presence of the dark lines is similar to the annual rings on a tree. Darker lines in the striae of Retzius result from systemic disturbances in the human body. For example, a fever can cause some lines to appear darker than those surrounding it. The neonatal line is the darkest band which represents the disrupted enamel formation after the stress of being born. The formation of the striae of Retzius result from a constriction of Tomes’ processes in conjunction with an increasing process of interrod enamel development. Superior Alveolar Artery The superior alveolar artery does not exist. Rather, the posterior superior alveolar artery is a branch of the maxillary artery that serves the upper teeth and other related structures. The anterior superior alveolar arteries are branches of the infraorbital artery, also supplying the upper teeth and related structures. If a middle superior alveolar artery is present, it also arises as a branch of the infraorbital artery. Teledentistry Teledentistry is the use of information technology and telecommunications for dental care, consultation, education, and public awareness in the same manner as telehealth and telemedicine. Temporary Crown A temporary crown is a provisional, short term restoration used in dentistry. Usually the temporary crown is constructed from a chemical-cure composite, although alternative systems using aluminium crown forms are occasionally used by practitioners. The temporary material is shaped by the dentist to form a tooth shape that protects the prepared tooth, prevents damage to the periodontal tissues (gums) and disguises the prepared tooth to a degree until the final, definitive restoration can be made by a dental technician. A temporary crown will usually be cemented in place with a soft temporary dental cement, such as Temp-Bond NE. This allows easy removal when fitting the definitve restoration. If a temporary crown becomes decemented, it is important that a dentist examines the patient as overeruption of the opposing teeth may prevent accurate fitting of the final crown. Temporary Restoration Temporary restoration is a temporary filling of prepared tooth until permanent restoration is carried out. It is used to cover the prepared part of the tooth, in order to maintain the occlusal space and the contact points, and insulation of the pulpal tissues and maintenance of the periodontal relationship. Sometimes permanent restoration is not done after tooth preparation, this maybe to prepare for indirect restoration such as inlays and onlays. Temporary fillings are also used ‘stabilization’ techniques where many restorations are needed, and the problem may become worse before it can be fully treated – so temporary fillings are placed in order to stop progression. Vestibular Lamina The vestibular lamina also termed as lip furrow band is a proliferation of cells into ectomesenchyme tissue. Responsible for the formation of the vestibule (the space bordered by the junction of the gingiva and the tissue of the inner cheek, the vestibular lamina is usually contrasted with the dental lamina, which develops concurrently and is involved with developing teeth. Both the vestibular lamina and the dental lamina arise from a group of epithelial cells, called the primary epithelial band. Typodont
A mandibular typodont with some missing teeth to illustrate the "sockets" and screw holes with which the plastic teeth are held in the typodont. In dentistry, a typodont is a model of the oral cavity, including teeth, gingiva, and the palate. A typodont is an educational tool for dental and hygienist students, allowing them to practice certain dental procedures on the plastic teeth of a model before actually performing the procedures on live patients. Generally, typodonts have replaceable, screw-in teeth that are composed of materials that allow students to drill cavity preparations and fill them with restorative material, such as amalgam or composite, or prepare the plastic teeth for crowns and bridges. |
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An Articulator is a mechanical device used in dentistry to which casts of the maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) teeth are fixed and reproduces recorded positions of the mandible in relation to the maxilla. An articulator assists in the fabrication of removable prosthodontic appliances (dentures), fixed prosthodontic restorations (crowns, bridges, inlays and onlays) and orthodontic appliances.
The cusp of Carabelli, or Carabelli’s tubercle, or tuberculus anomalus of Georg Carabelli is a small additional cusp at the mesiopalatal line angle of maxillary first molars. This extra cusp is usually found on the first molar, and becomes progressively less likely in the second, third molars. This cusp is entirely absent in some individuals and present in others in a variety of forms. In some cases, Carabelli’s cusp may rival the main cusps in size. Other related forms include ridges, pits, or furrows. This additional cusp was first described in 1842 by the Hungarian Georg Carabelli (Carabelli György), the court dentist of the Austrian Emperor Franz.
Elastic ligature is a term used in orthodontics for the small elastic that is used to affix the archwire to the bracket. Ligatures are usually changed at each adjustment, and come in many varied colors including transparent. A series of ligatures connected to each other and used to pull teeth together with more strength is called a powerchain. Ligatures can also be made of wire.
A Quad Helix (or quadhelix) is an orthodontic appliance for the upper teeth that is cemented in the mouth. It is attached to the molars by 2 bands and has four active helix springs that widen the arch of the mouth to make room for crowded teeth, or correct a posterior cross-bite, where lower teeth are buccal (outer) than upper teeth. It is usually made from 38 mil stainless steel wire and is primarily indicated in mixed dentition, cleft patients and those that have performed the act of thumbsucking. A variety of this appliance is inserted into attachments that are welded to the bands. In this way the orthodontist can adjust the appliance without removing the bands
Scope is a brand of mouthwash made by Procter & Gamble. Originally available only in mint flavor, Scope is still currently available in original mint (green), but also in a peppermint (blue) & new Scope White. The Citrus Splash flavor was discontinued due to insufficient demand to meet the slightly higher cost of production. There is a new Scope Outlast and a new logo; the old logo on the scope mouthwash is still on sale in available stores.
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