Dentist terms when checking teeth: what they mean and why they matter
If you’ve ever sat in the dental chair listening to your dentist call out numbers, letters or phrases that don’t make much sense, you’re not alone. Many patients leave their appointment wondering what was actually said, what it means for their teeth, and whether they should be worried.Understanding dentist terms when checking teeth can make dental visits far less stressful. When you know what your dentist is looking for and what common terms mean, you feel more informed, more in control, and more confident about your oral health.At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, we believe dentistry should always be explained in plain English. During routine check-ups, hygiene visits or emergency appointments, our clinicians take time to talk patients through what they see and what it means. This guide explains the most common dentist terms you might hear, why they’re used, and how they help protect your long-term oral health.You’ll also find links throughout to our services, including general dentistry in Leicester, dental hygienist appointments, and our emergency dentist in Leicester.
Why dentists use specific terms during check-ups
Dentists and nurses often use short clinical terms during an examination to communicate clearly and efficiently. These terms help them:- record findings accurately
- track changes over time
- spot early signs of problems
- plan treatment safely
- communicate with other clinicians
Dentist terms related to tooth surfaces
Every tooth has several surfaces, and dentists use specific terms to describe exactly where they are checking.Occlusal
This refers to the chewing surface of the back teeth.Buccal
The surface of the tooth that faces the cheek.Lingual
The surface that faces the tongue.Mesial
The side of the tooth that faces towards the centre of the mouth.Distal
The side that faces away from the centre of the mouth.When dentists use these terms, they are simply pinpointing where a filling, stain, crack or cavity might be.Dentist terms when checking teeth for decay
One of the main purposes of a dental check-up is to look for tooth decay. You may hear the following terms:Caries
This is the clinical word for tooth decay.Early decay
A very small area of enamel weakening that may not yet need a filling.Cavity
A hole in the tooth caused by decay.Soft
This means the tooth structure feels weakened, often due to decay.Arrested decay
Decay that has stopped progressing, often due to improved oral hygiene.Dentists aim to catch decay early so that treatment can be minimal. That’s why regular dental check-ups in Leicester are so important.Dentist terms related to gum health
Your gums are just as important as your teeth. During an examination, dentists and hygienists closely assess gum health using specific terms.Inflammation
This means redness or swelling, often due to plaque.Bleeding on probing
Bleeding when the gums are gently checked, often a sign of gum disease.Pocket depth
The space between the tooth and gum. Deeper pockets suggest gum disease.Recession
When the gums pull away from the tooth, exposing the root.Periodontal disease
Advanced gum disease affecting the bone that supports the teeth.If you hear these terms, it often means a referral to our dental hygienist in Leicester will help stabilise and improve gum health.Dentist terms when checking teeth with numbers
Many patients notice dentists calling out numbers during a check-up. These are usually measurements.1–3 mm
Healthy gum pocket depth.4 mm
Early gum disease.5 mm or more
More advanced gum disease that needs treatment.These measurements help track changes over time and ensure problems are addressed early.Terms related to existing dental work
Dentists also check previous treatments to make sure they are still healthy.Margin
The edge where a filling or crown meets the tooth.Leakage
A small gap allowing bacteria to enter under a filling.Wear
Gradual thinning of teeth due to grinding or erosion.Cracked restoration
A filling or crown that has developed a fracture.Identifying these issues early during a routine check-up prevents bigger problems later.Dentist terms when checking teeth on X-rays
X-rays allow dentists to see what’s happening below the surface. You may hear:Radiolucency
A darker area on an X-ray, often indicating decay or infection.Bone loss
Loss of jawbone around the teeth, usually due to gum disease.Periapical area
The tip of the tooth root.Abscess
An infection at the root of the tooth.If urgent issues are found on X-ray, you may be advised to see our emergency dentist in Leicester for prompt care.Terms used during a dental hygienist appointment
Hygienists focus on prevention and gum health. Common terms include:Plaque
Soft bacterial build-up on teeth.Calculus (tartar)
Hardened plaque that cannot be removed at home.Scaling
Removal of plaque and calculus.Polishing
Smoothing the tooth surface to reduce plaque build-up.Regular visits to dental hygienist in Leicester help keep gums healthy and reduce the need for more complex treatment.Dentist terms when checking teeth for bite problems
Your bite affects tooth wear and jaw comfort. Dentists may use these terms:Occlusion
How your teeth meet when biting.High spot
A tooth or filling that hits first when biting.Bruxism
Teeth grinding or clenching.TMJ
The jaw joint.Bite issues are often addressed as part of general dentistry at Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery.Why understanding dentist terms helps patients
Knowing common dentist terms when checking teeth helps you:- understand your treatment plan
- make informed decisions
- feel less anxious
- spot changes in your oral health
- maintain better long-term care
What to do if you don’t understand a term
Dentists expect questions. If something isn’t clear:- ask for a plain-English explanation
- request to see X-rays or photos
- ask what happens if nothing is done
- ask about alternative options
Why patients trust Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery
- Our clinicians conduct thousands of dental examinations, using consistent terminology to track oral health accurately.
- We use modern diagnostic tools, evidence-based guidelines and clear explanations to guide patient care.
- Our approach reflects current UK dental standards and best practice.
- We prioritise transparency, patient education and informed consent at every visit.
When dentist terms indicate urgency
Certain terms suggest a need for urgent care. These include:- abscess
- severe infection
- spreading swelling
- acute pain
- trauma
Final thoughts
Understanding dentist terms when checking teeth turns a dental visit from a confusing experience into an informed one. These terms help dentists protect your oral health, but you should always feel confident asking what they mean.If you’re due a check-up, hygiene visit or need urgent advice, the team at Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery is here to help. Whether it’s routine care, preventive hygiene or emergency treatment, we believe informed patients make healthier choices.Frequently asked questions
Why do dentists use so many technical terms?
They help dentists communicate accurately and record findings clearly, but they should always be explained to patients.
Should I worry if I hear unfamiliar dentist terms when checking teeth?
Not necessarily. Many terms describe early or mild findings that are easily managed.
Can I ask my dentist to explain terms during the check-up?
Absolutely. Dentists expect questions and encourage understanding.
Do dentist terms change between appointments?
Some terms may change as conditions improve or worsen. That’s why regular check-ups matter.
When should dentist terms prompt urgent action?
Words like abscess, infection, or severe bone loss usually require prompt treatment.