Glossary

Dental exams Glossary

Plain-language definitions of the dental exams terms you will hear at Smile Tustin in Tustin, CA.

Cavities

A cavity is a hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay.

Tooth decay (dental caries)

Tooth decay is the breakdown of teeth due to acids produced by bacteria.

Tooth Enamel

Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the human body.

Periodontal disease

Periodontitis also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue

TMJ

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ disorders) are problems that affect the chewing muscles and joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull.