Glossary Pr-Z (Pre-Molar - Wisdom Teeth)

Pre-molars – Middle two teeth (left and right, top and bottom) located behind the incisors but in front of the molars.

Preventive Dentistry – Type of dentistry dedicated to educating patients on the importance of good oral health. This includes the prevention of advanced oral diseases. (learn more)

Prophylaxis – A dental procedure that removes hard deposits, plaque and stains from the teeth. Also known as a cleaning. (learn more)

Teeth Grinding – See bruxism.

Temporomandibular Disorders – Pain in the temporomandibular joints, which are the joints and ligaments that connect the mandible to the skull on either side of the mouth. Also known as TMJ or TMD. (learn more)

Thumbsucking – Natural children’s habit that may cause improper dental development. (learn more)

Tooth Bud - A term used to describe the development of a tooth. As the teeth are forming in the jaws, the area of formation is called a bud.

Wisdom Teeth – Teeth at the very back of the mouth (left and right, top and bottom). Wisdom teeth can be valuable to the mouth if properly positioned. If impacted or poorly aligned, wisdom teeth must be removed.