abscess 

Severe and/or chronic localized inflammation in the gum tissue or at the tooth root that usually presents with infection, swelling, pain, and pus, and can cause damage to surrounding teeth and bone if left untreated.

abutment

A natural tooth or dental implant that is used to support a fixed or removable dental prosthesis.

acid etching

Preparation of tooth enamel or dentin surface by the use of an acidic chemical to ensure successful bonding.

acrylic resin

Compound that may be used to fabricate dental prosthetics, such as denture teeth and crowns.

ADA

American Dental Association, an organization of professional dentists within the United States, commonly known for providing public dental health education.

adhesion

Part of the bonding process, characterized by chemical or physical agents connecting two or more surfaces with or without the use of adhesive

adhesive

Any substance that causes two or more surfaces to maintain connection with one another for an indefinite period of time.

air abrasion

The use of a tool that blasts air and abrasive material at a tooth to remove small amounts of tooth structure.

alloy/amalgam

Compound made up of two or more elements and containing properties not found in the individual elements.

alveolar

Part of the jaw bone where teeth are anchored.

anesthesia (local)

Medication used to block pain in one area for treatment.

anesthesia (general)

Medication used to induce partial or complete unconsciousness during treatment.

anterior

Refers to teeth or tissues in the front part of the mouth.

ANUG

Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis, a condition characterized by small ulcers in the gums and aggravated by stress or smoking.

apex

Tip of the tooth root.

apicoectomy

Surgical amputation of a tooth root to treat a dead tooth.

appliance

Oral device such as braces, mouth guards, or retainers.

arch

Curved structure of upper or lower teeth.

archwire

Metal wire used in braces to guide teeth into proper alignment.

arthrogram

Diagnostic x-ray involving injection of contrast dye into joint to view the bone structures.

artificial crown

Prosthetic tooth restoration that covers or replaces a tooth, may attach to partial tooth or dental implant.

attrition

Natural wear causing loss of structure.

augmentation

Procedure that treats a deficiency of soft tissue or bone structure.

avulsion/evulsion

Removal of tooth from socket due to trauma.