Eruption
‘Eruption’ describes the process of a tooth breaking through the gum as it grows.
Tooth eruption
Tooth eruption is when a tooth breaks through the gum during growth. This usually happens in childhood and may be known as teething. However, sometimes a tooth may not come in properly and needs to be pulled. Most teeth will start coming through at the age of 6 months and finish by age six when […]
Impacted tooth
An ‘impacted’ tooth is a tooth that has been unable to erupt (grow into the mouth).
Extraoral
‘Extraoral’ is a generic dental term relating to outside the mouth, as opposed to intraoral.
Intraoral
‘Intraoral’ is a generic dental term relating to the inside of the mouth, as opposed to extraoral.
Maxilla palate in the mouth
Maxillary – Relating to the maxilla (upper jaw). The maxilla palate is the medical term for the upper jaw. Like the mandible (lower jaw), it is a fusion of two bones.
Plaque
Plaque is a sticky substance that contains acids and bacteria. It is colourless, odourless, and causes tooth decay.
Pathogen
‘Pathogen’ is the generic term for an organism that can cause disease.
Mandible
The mandible is the medical term for the lower jaw which holds all the lower teeth in place. It is a “U-shaped” bone, with a joint on either end. These joints are located just in front of each ear. When the jaw system is functioning properly, the lower jaw is able to freely hinge at […]
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is essentially gum inflammation caused by dental plaque and poor oral hygiene. It is seen as the first stage of gum disease. Gums are sore, red, inflamed, and bleeding may occur. Please visit your Dental hygienist every 6 months to keep your gums healthy.