Dentistry

Amalgam is a type of dental filling material made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It is used to restore teeth that are damaged or have cavities, providing a strong and long-lasting filling. Amalgam has been used in dentistry for over a century due to its strength and durability, though it is less commonly used today because tooth-colored materials are preferred by patients.

A crown is a type of tooth covering used to restore a damaged tooth's shape, size, and strength. It is placed over the existing tooth, covering it entirely to improve its appearance and function. Crowns are typically made from materials like metal, porcelain, or a combination of both and are commonly used to repair broken teeth or after procedures like root canals.

A filling is a dental treatment used to repair a tooth that has a cavity or is damaged. The dentist removes the damaged part of the tooth and then fills the space with a material like amalgam, a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, and tin, or composite resin, a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture. Fillings help restore the tooth's normal shape and function and prevent further damage.

Plaque is a sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that forms on teeth. It develops when bacteria in the mouth mix with sugary or starchy foods. If not removed by regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which is a hard and crusty buildup that can lead to tooth damage and gum disease. Regular dental hygiene is essential to prevent plaque buildup and maintain oral health.

A retainer is a dental device used to keep teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment, like braces. It is usually made of plastic or metal and fits closely over the teeth. Retainers help prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position and maintain the results achieved through orthodontic work.

Tartar is a hard and crusty buildup that forms on teeth when plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria, is not removed and hardens over time. It can lead to tooth damage and gum disease if not cleaned by a dentist. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings help prevent tartar buildup and maintain oral health.

Dental composite is a tooth-colored material used to fill cavities or repair damaged teeth. It is made from a mixture of plastic and glass, which can be shaped to match the natural appearance of the tooth. Composites are used to restore the tooth’s function and appearance while fitting in naturally with the surrounding teeth.

Glass ionomer cement is a type of dental material used for filling cavities and making other repairs. It is made from a mixture of glass and a type of acid, and it sticks to the tooth structure while also releasing fluoride, which is a mineral that helps protect against further damage. Glass ionomer cement is often used in areas where strong attachment and fluoride release are beneficial.

A dental scaler is a tool used by dentists to remove plaque and tartar, which are bacterial buildups, from the surfaces of teeth, especially around the gum line. It helps clean teeth and prevent gum disease by removing hard buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss.

A dental burnisher is a tool used by dentists to smooth and polish dental materials, such as fillings or crowns, after they are placed. It helps to shape the material, make it smooth and shiny, and make sure it fits better with the surrounding tooth structure.

A dental drill is a tool used by dentists to remove damage and shape teeth during procedures like fillings or crowns. It uses a high-speed rotating tip to carefully remove damaged parts of a tooth and prepare it for treatment. The drill helps in precise and efficient dental work, ensuring a clean and smooth surface for repairs.

In dentistry, an elevator is a tool used to lift and loosen teeth from their places in the jaw before they are removed. It has a slender, angled blade that helps to separate the tooth from the surrounding gum and bone, making it easier for the dentist to take out the tooth. Elevators are essential for performing tooth removal procedures such as wisdom tooth removals with minimal damage to the surrounding tissue.