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Dental Dictionary

Understand dental terms and concepts.

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Many medications and therapies can cause side effects that negatively impact your oral health and lead to further oral disease requiring more extensive treatment. It is important to understand these risks and take the proper precautions. You should always be open and honest with your dentist about any medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you take. This will help them inform you of possible oral health effects of these products, give them an additional set of symptoms to look for at your appointments, and alter your dental treatment plan if necessary.

Dental terminology: Malocclusion

Misaligned teeth refers to upper and lower teeth that do not conform to the normal bite position.

Mouth sores include mouth ulcers, cold sores, canker sores, and other related conditions. It also includes a variety of unusual cuts, bumps, or lesions found in the mouth or on the lips. Mouth sores can be caused by an underlying disease, virus, or condition, along with burns, bites to your tongue or cheek, acidic foods, or stress. Some medications can also cause mouth sores. If you are concerned about a sore in your mouth, especially if it has not receded in a week or more, contact your dentist.

If you participate in sports or activities that can cause the risk of facial impacts, you should wear a properly-fitted mouthguard to reduce your risk of dental injuries. Participating in these activities without a properly-fitted mouthguard exposes your teeth to the risks of chipping, displacement, or being knocked out entirely.

There are different types of athletic mouthguards.

  • Standard pre-formed: This type of mouthguard comes in standard sizes. They are available at sporting goods stores. They are the least expensive but are also the least likely to fit properly. As a result, these mouthguards may not reliably protect your teeth. Your dentist does not typically help you with this type of mouthguard.
  • Semi-custom mouth-formed: These types of mouthguards are also available at sporting goods stores. The material can be molded to the shape of your dental arches and teeth. The mouthguard is placed in hot water to soften the material, then placed in your mouth to form to your teeth as it cools. They are intended for home use, but your dentist may be able to help you get a better fit, especially if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
  • Custom: Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth and gums and creates a custom-made mouthguard. These mouthguards provide the best fit and protection but are more costly than other options.
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