| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
CAT scan |
Computed axial tomography scan. Helps in determining available bone for precise implant placement |
Cavitron |
dental tool that uses high frequency ultrasonic waves to clean teeth |
Cellulitis |
soft tissue infection causing extensive, hard swelling, a potentially dangerous condition requiring immediate attention. Can arise from an untreated tooth |
Cementum |
hard tissue that covers the roots of teeth |
Chart |
log of dental or medical records |
Clasp |
metal or acrylic part of a removable partial denture that hooks on to natural teeth to retain the partial in the mouth |
Cleaning |
removal of plaque and calculus (tarter) from teeth, generally above the gum line. Also referred to as Prophylaxis |
Commercially pure titanium |
Biocompatible metal commonly used for dental implants. It is an alloy of Titanium 99 wt. % and small amounts of oxygen with trace amounts of iron, hydrogen, carbon and nitrogen. |
Complication |
An unfavorable condition that may be reversible or irreversible. Cosmetic (aesthetic) dentistry - treatments performed to enhance appearance by altering the shape and color of the teeth |
Composite resin |
material composed of plastic with small glass or ceramic particles; usually cured with filtered light or chemical catalyst |
CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) |
Artificial procedures employed by a rescuer after cessation of breathing or heart stoppage |
Cross bite |
reverse biting relationship of upper and lower teeth; the lower teeth are ahead of the upper teeth in their relationship |
Crown |
(1) the portion of a tooth above the gum line; (2) dental restoration covering all or most of the natural tooth |
Curettage |
removal of diseased tissue from a periodontal pocket. Usually done in conjunction with scaling and root planning (deep cleaning) |
Cusp |
mound on posterior teeth |
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