Dental Glossary & Knowledge Base — Clearly Dental Riverwood
Understanding dental procedures can be challenging, especially if you’re preparing for treatment or researching your options. That’s why we’ve created this glossary and knowledge base to offer simple explanations of key terms and answer common questions in a way that feels clear and reassuring. If you’re a long-time patient or visiting for the first time, we want you to feel confident and informed about your care at Clearly Dental Riverwood.
General Dentistry
General dentistry is focused on protecting and maintaining your oral health. It includes regular check-ups, early diagnosis, preventive care, and treatments for everyday dental concerns.
Check-up and Clean — A check-up and clean is a routine appointment that includes a full oral examination, scale and polish, and a fluoride application. We recommend scheduling this every six months to help prevent issues before they start.
Tooth Decay — Tooth decay occurs when plaque and bacteria break down the enamel, eventually creating holes or cavities in the tooth. We use digital X-rays and intraoral cameras to detect decay in its earliest stages.
Gum Disease — Gum disease is an inflammation or infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. At Clearly Dental Riverwood, we provide gentle deep cleans and guidance to manage early symptoms.
How often should I book a check-up?
You should book a check-up every six months unless your dentist advises a different schedule based on your oral health.
Will a dental clean hurt?
Dental cleans are generally not painful. Most patients describe the experience as comfortable, and we always check in with you throughout the appointment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are custom-made plastic trays that gently shift your teeth into better alignment. They offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces.
How long does a clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment with clear aligners typically takes between 6 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Can I remove my clear aligners while eating?
Yes, clear aligners are designed to be removed during meals so you can eat and drink without restrictions.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a safe cosmetic procedure that lifts stains and discolouration from the tooth surface, helping you achieve a brighter smile.
In-Chair Whitening — Performed in the clinic, this option uses professional-strength whitening gel and LED light activation for quicker results.
Take-Home Whitening — This option includes custom-fitted trays and whitening gel for gradual results at home.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, teeth whitening is safe when it is performed or supervised by a qualified dental professional.
Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some patients experience mild tooth sensitivity after whitening, but it is usually temporary and subsides within a few days.
Cosmetic Injectables
Cosmetic injectables can be used to smoothen facial lines and restore balance, often complementing dental treatments like veneers or smile makeovers.
Are cosmetic injectables safe?
Yes, cosmetic injectables are safe when administered by trained professionals in a clinical environment.
How long do cosmetic injectable results last?
Most cosmetic injectables provide visible results for approximately 3 to 6 months.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts placed in the jawbone to act as artificial roots for replacement teeth. They are a long-term solution for missing teeth that look, feel, and function naturally.
How long is the dental implant process?
The process typically takes several months and includes planning, implant placement, healing time, and the final crown fitting.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
You may be a candidate if you have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density, which we assess during your consultation.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover and protect damaged, cracked, or weakened teeth, restoring their strength and appearance.
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last between 10 and 15 years or even longer.
Will the dental crown match my natural teeth?
Yes, At Clearly Dental Riverwood, we match the crown’s colour and shape to your surrounding teeth for a natural appearance.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or minor fractures. At Clearly Dental Riverwood, we use tooth-coloured composite materials that blend in seamlessly.
How long does a dental filling procedure take?
Most fillings take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
Can I eat after a dental filling treatment?
You should wait a couple of hours before eating, and always follow the aftercare instructions provided by our dentist.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners designed to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. Using a series of custom-made, removable trays, it gradually moves your teeth into the desired position without the need for metal braces. It’s a popular option for both adults and teens looking for a more flexible orthodontic solution.
What makes Invisalign different from regular braces?
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, removable, and don’t use any brackets or wires. This allows for easier cleaning, unrestricted eating, and a more discreet appearance.
How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners?
You should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.
Do I need to visit the dentist regularly during treatment?
Yes, we schedule periodic check-ins to monitor your progress and provide new sets of aligners as your treatment advances.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment time varies, but most cases are completed within 6 to 18 months depending on your unique needs.
Sports Mouthguards
Custom mouthguards protect your teeth and jaw from injury during contact or high-impact sports. In our practice, we tailor each one to fit comfortably and securely.
Why choose a custom mouthguard instead of a store-bought one?
Custom mouthguards offer better fit, comfort, and protection compared to generic store-bought versions.
How often should I replace my mouthguard?
It’s recommended to replace your mouthguard every 12 months or sooner if it becomes loose or damaged.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often emerge during late teens or early twenties and can cause pain, teeth crowding, or infection. We offer gentle in-house wisdom teeth extractions.
Is the wisdom teeth removal procedure done at the clinic?
Yes, wisdom teeth removals are performed in-house at our Riverwood clinic.
Will I need time off to recover after my wisdom teeth removal?
Most patients need at least one to two days of rest following the procedure.
Emergency Dental Care
Emergency dental care is required to treat urgent oral health issues such as severe pain, swelling, dental trauma, or broken restorations. We aim to provide same-day appointments whenever possible to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency includes severe toothaches, broken or chipped teeth, bleeding gums, lost fillings or crowns, and injuries from accidents.
Can I walk in for an emergency dental treatment without an appointment?
We encourage you to call ahead so we can prepare for your visit, but we always do our best to accommodate emergencies on the same day.
Teeth Extractions
Extractions are necessary when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or causing crowding. Our dentist will ensure your comfort throughout the procedure and recovery.
What should I expect during recovery from a tooth extraction?
You may experience mild soreness or swelling, which is normal. We provide complete aftercare instructions to help you heal comfortably.
Do I need someone to drive me home after a tooth extraction?
Yes, if you are sedated during the procedure, someone should accompany you and drive you home.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their shape, colour, or alignment.
Do dental veneers harm natural teeth?
Veneers require removing a small amount of enamel, but the reduction is minimal and carefully managed.
How long do veneers last?
With good care and regular dental visits, veneers can last 10 to 15 years or more.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment corrects alignment issues with teeth and jaws. We offer clear aligners and other modern solutions suitable for children, teens, and adults.
When should my child visit for orthodontic treatment?
We recommend a consultation by age seven to monitor jaw and tooth development.
Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Yes, orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and many adults choose clear aligners for a discreet option.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
This surgical specialty treats complex dental and facial issues like impacted teeth, jaw problems, and facial trauma. At Clearly Dental Riverwood, we collaborate with trusted specialists when necessary.
Are all oral surgeries done in-house?
Some procedures are performed in our clinic, while other complex cases may be referred to a specialist.
What conditions require this type of surgery?
Conditions like impacted wisdom teeth, jaw misalignment, and facial injury may require oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery includes procedures like dental implants, extractions, and soft tissue treatment. We offer gentle care and pain management options to ensure your comfort.
Is oral surgery painful?
Thanks to modern anaesthesia and sedation, oral surgery is generally not painful during the procedure.
How long does recovery from oral surgery take?
Most patients recover within a few days, depending on the procedure and individual healing time.
Other General Dental Terms You Should Know
Abscess — A painful, pus-filled infection at the root of a tooth or gum, usually treated with antibiotics, drainage, or root canal therapy.
Abutment — A connector piece that joins a crown, bridge, or denture to a dental implant.
Adhesive Dentistry — A technique using bonding materials to attach restorations to teeth securely.
Appliance — A custom-made, removable dental device such as a night guard, retainer, or mouthguard.
Anterior Teeth — The front teeth (incisors and canines) that are most visible when you smile.
Bicuspid / Premolar — Teeth located between the canines and molars that help with chewing.
Bridge — A dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth, anchored to surrounding teeth or implants.
Calculus (Tartar) — Hardened plaque that forms on teeth and must be removed during a professional clean.
Dentin — The inner layer of the tooth beneath the enamel that protects the pulp.
Denture / Partial Denture — A removable replacement for missing teeth that restores function and appearance.
Endodontics — A dental specialty focused on the tooth’s inner structures, including root canal treatment.
Enamel — The hard, outer surface of your tooth that protects it from decay.
Malocclusion — A misalignment of the teeth or jaw that may require orthodontic correction.
Onlay — A restoration used to repair a tooth’s chewing surface when a filling isn’t sufficient.
Over-denture — A type of denture that fits over existing teeth or dental implants.
Palate — The roof of your mouth, important in speech and denture design.
Pulp — The soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels.
Plaque — A sticky film of bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease if not removed daily.
Prophylaxis — A professional dental clean that removes plaque and tartar to prevent gum disease.
Prosthodontics — The area of dentistry focused on restoring or replacing missing teeth with prosthetics like crowns or bridges.
Root Canal — A treatment that removes infected tissue from inside the tooth and seals it to prevent future problems.
Root Planing / Scaling — A deep-cleaning method to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline.
Sedation — A method used to help anxious patients feel relaxed during dental procedures.
Wisdom Teeth — Also called third molars, these teeth often cause issues and may need to be removed.
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Contact Clearly Dental Riverwood for professional dental guidance.