Dental Terms

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6. air abrasion/micro abrasion

a drill-free technique that blasts the tooth surface with air and an abrasive. This is a relatively new technology that may avoid the need for an anesthetic and can be used to remove tooth decay, old composite restorations and superficial stains and discolorations, and prepare a tooth surface for bonding or sealants.

7. alveolar bone

the bone surrounding the root of the tooth, anchoring it in place; loss of this bone is typically associated with severe periodontal (gum) disease.

8. amalgam

a common filling material used to repair cavities. The material, also known as silver fillings, contains mercury in combination with silver, tin, copper, and sometimes zinc.

9. anaerobic bacteria

bacteria that do not need oxygen to grow; they are generally associated with periodontal disease (see below).

10. analgesia

a state of pain relief; an agent for lessening pain.