filling

Term commonly used to describe a material such as metal, resin, or porcelain used to restore lost or damaged tooth structure.

fistula

A boil in the gums, infected with pus.

fixed denture/prosthesis

Prosthetic which is attached to adjacent teeth or dental implants to be non-removable by the patient.

flap surgery

Surgical lifting of the gum tissue in order to expose and clean tooth and bone structures beneath.

forceps

Tool that may be used in the removal of teeth.

fracture

Crack or break in bone or tooth structure.

frenectomy

Surgical reshaping or removal of small amount of muscle tissue attaching lips to gums or tongue to mouth floor, generally done to improve function.

frenum

Thin muscle tissue that attaches cheek, lip, and/or tongue within the mouth.