| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
CAD/CAM |
Computer aided design/ computer aided manufacturing |
Calcium |
chemical element needed for healthy teeth, bones and nerves |
Calculus |
hard residue, commonly known as "tarter," that forms on teeth due to inadequate plaque control, often stained yellow or brown |
Canker sore |
mouth sore appearing whitish, often with a red halo, of ten to fourteen day duration . Also known as aphtous ulcers |
Cantilever bridge |
fixed bridge that attaches to adjacent teeth only on one end |
Cap |
common term for dental crown |
Caries |
tooth decay or "cavities" |
Cast or model |
reproduction of structures made by pouring plaster or stone into a mold or impression |
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 |
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