Dental Dictionary
“R” Terms
radicular
Refers to tooth root.
radiograph
Also known as an x-ray, image of bone and tooth structures produced through exposure to ionizing radiation.
reimplantation
Reinsertion of tooth into its socket following trauma that partially or completely removed it.
reline
Resurfacing of the tissue side of a removable denture to correct issue with fit.
resin
Material used in dental restorations and other dental treatments.
resorption
Loss of bone or structure.
retainer
Appliance used to ensure teeth do not return to prior misaligned state following orthodontic treatment.
root
Portion of the tooth that attaches the tooth into the gums and socket.
root canal
Pulp cavity inside the tooth root.
root canal therapy
Treatment of disease or injury to tooth pulp, generally involves the removal of part or all of the pulp and replacement with inert material.
root planing
Procedure used in the treatment of periodontal disease, involves deep cleaning of teeth at the roots to remove calculus and other substances.
rubber dam
Latex sheet used to isolate part of the mouth from saliva and potential contaminants during surgery.