Onlay – a laboratory processed restoration made of metal, porcelain, or acrylic to replace one or more cusps of a tooth.
Opaquing – means covering the metal work of a prostheses with a material so that it does not shine through. Learn More
Open Bite – an increased distance between two arches; the open space between the front upper and lower teeth when the back teeth are touching.
Oral Cancer – The oral cavity, or the inside of your mouth–which begins with the lips and ends in front of the tonsils–is the part of your body where oral cancer can occur. This can include the lips, tongue cheek, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate (the roof of the mouth), and sinuses. Cancer can be defined as an uncontrollable growth of cells that invade the tissue and cause damage. It is reported that only 5% of cancer occurs around the neck and head area; however, 30% of cancer develops within the oral cavity. Early diagnosis can improve the outlook of successful treatment. While in the dental office, ask the dentist to perform an oral exam. Learn More
Oral Cavity – the inside of the mouth.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon – a dental specialist who treats and surgically corrects diseases, injures, and defects of the mouth and jaw.
Oral Pathologist/Oral Maxillofacial Pathologist – a dental professional who specializes in the diagnosis of serious dental and facial cavity diseases.
Oral Sedation – a form of conscious sedation often used in dentistry. Also known as enteral sedation, patients simply need to take a pill prior to their appointment in order to become sedated.
Oral Surgery (O.S.) – surgery of the mouth.
Orthodontics – A branch of dentistry dealing with irregularities of the teeth or the jaw and their correction. Learn More
Orthodontist – a dental specialist who works to prevent and correct misaligned teeth and jaws, also known as malocclusions or faulty occlusions.
Osteoblasts – cells which aid in the growth and development of teeth and bones.
Osteoclasts – cells which help to remodel bone.
Overbite – a dental condition where the upper teeth noticeably cover or overlap the lower teeth.
