P-U
- P
- Palate - Roof of the mouth.
- Partial denture - A removable appliance that replaces teeth. Also called a bridge.
- Pedodontics - A field of dentistry that deals with children’s teeth.
- Perio pocket - An opening formed by receding gums.
- Periodontal disease - Infection of the gum tissues. Also called gum disease.
- Periodontist - A dentist who treats diseases of the gums.
- Permanent teeth - The teeth that erupt after primary teeth. Also called adult teeth.
- Plaque - A sticky, colorless substance that covers the teeth after sleep or periods between brushing.
- Posterior teeth - The bicuspids and molars. Also called the back teeth.
- Primary teeth - A person’s first set of teeth. Also called baby teeth or temporary teeth.
- Prophylaxis - The act of cleaning the teeth.
- Prosthodontics - The field of dentistry that deals with artificial dental appliances.
- Pulp - The inner tissues of the tooth containing blood, nerves and connective tissue.
- R
- Receding gum - A condition in which the gums separate from the tooth, allowing bacteria and other substances to attack the tooth’s enamel and surrounding bone.
- Resin filling - An artificial filling used to restore teeth. Also called a composite filling.
- Root canal - A procedure in which a tooth’s nerve is removed and an inner canal cleansed and later filled.
- Root planing - Scraping or cleansing of teeth to remove heavy buildup of tartar below the gum line.
- S
- Sealant - A synthetic material placed on the tooth’s surface that protects the enamel and chewing surfaces.
- T
- TMJ - Temporomandibular joint disorder. Health problems related to the jaw joint just in front of the ear.
- Tarter - A hardened substance (also called calculus) that sticks to the tooth’s surface.