Tartar

Common term for dental calculus, a hard deposit that adheres to teeth; produces rough surface that attracts plaque

TMD (or tmj disorder)

Temperomandibular disorder; term given to condition characterized by facial pain and restricted ability to open or move the jaw

TMJ

The temporomandibular joint, the point where the lower jaw attaches to the skull

Third-party Provider

Insurance company, union, government agency that pays all or a part of cost of dental treatment

Tooth Bud

Early embryonic structure that becomes a tooth

Tooth Whitening

A chemical or laser process to lighten the color of teeth

Topical Anesthetic

Ointment that produces mild anesthesia when applied to tissue surface

Torus

Common bony protuberance on the palate or lower jaw

Transplant

Placing a natural tooth in the empty socket of another tooth

Trauma

Injury caused by external force, chemical, temperature extremes, or poor tooth alignment

Trench Mouth

Gum disease characterized by severe mouth sores and loss of tissue. See ANUG.

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