Vocabulary Words Every Dental Office Receptionist Should Know

Appointment

Definition: A scheduled meeting or arrangement.

• I have a doctor's appointment this afternoon.
• She made an appointment to see the dentist.
• His appointment was confirmed by email.

Appointment in a sentence

Dentist

Definition: A doctor who specializes in the care of teeth and gums.

• I have an appointment with the dentist tomorrow.
• She visits the dentist for check-ups every six months.
• Understanding the role of a dentist is important for oral health.

Dentist in a sentence

Patient

Definition: Able to wait without getting angry.

• She is very patient with her students.
• It's important to be patient when learning.
• He waited patiently for his turn.

Patient in a sentence

Teeth

Definition: the hard structures in the mouth used for biting and chewing

• She brushed her teeth every morning and night.
• The dentist checked my teeth for cavities.
• He lost a tooth and put it under his pillow.

Teeth in a sentence

Clean

Definition: To make something free of dirt or mess.

• I need to clean my room before my friends come.
• She will clean the dishes after dinner.
• We should clean up the classroom together.

Clean in a sentence

Smile

Definition: A facial expression showing happiness, made by curving the lips.

• Her smile brightened the room.
• He loves to smile at everyone he meets.
• A smile can make someone's day better.

Smile in a sentence

Checkup

Definition: A routine examination by a doctor.

• I have a checkup scheduled for next week.
• Regular checkups are important for health.
• He went for a checkup to see how he was doing.

Checkup in a sentence

X-ray

Definition: an imaging technique that uses radiation to see inside the body

• The doctor ordered an x-ray to check for fractures.
• He was nervous about getting an x-ray.
• Understanding x-rays is important for medical diagnoses.

X-ray in a sentence

Cavity

Definition: a hole or space within something

• The dentist found a cavity in his tooth.
• She filled the cavity with a special material.
• The cavity in the wall was caused by water damage.

Cavity in a sentence

Brush

Definition: A tool with bristles used for painting or cleaning.

• She used a brush to paint the picture.
• Don't forget to brush your teeth twice a day.
• He bought a new brush for his art supplies.

Brush in a sentence

Floss

Definition: A thin thread used to clean between teeth.

• You should floss daily for better dental health.
• He uses mint-flavored floss after brushing.
• Floss can help remove food stuck between teeth.

Floss in a sentence

Gums

Definition: The soft tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth.

• Healthy gums are important for dental health.
• She noticed her gums were swollen.
• He visited the dentist to check his gums.

Pain

Definition: An unpleasant feeling often caused by injury or illness.

• He felt pain in his leg after the fall.
• She took medicine to relieve the pain.
• The pain in her stomach made her uncomfortable.

Pain in a sentence

Treatment

Definition: The way of dealing with a patient or condition; care given to someone.

• He received treatment for his illness.
• The treatment helped her recover quickly.
• They discussed treatment options with the doctor.

Treatment in a sentence

Schedule

Definition: A plan that shows when tasks or events will happen.

• I have a busy schedule this week.
• She made a schedule for her study time.
• They checked the schedule for movie times.

Schedule in a sentence

Office

Definition: A place where people work, often in an administrative capacity.

• She works in an office downtown.
• They have a meeting in the office tomorrow.
• His office is very organized and tidy.

Office in a sentence

Insurance

Definition: A contract that provides protection against financial loss.

• Car insurance helps pay for damages in an accident.
• I have health insurance to cover doctor visits.
• You should get insurance for valuable items.

Insurance in a sentence

Doctor

Definition: A person who is trained to treat medical conditions.

• The doctor helps people stay healthy.
• I went to the doctor for a check-up.
• She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.

Doctor in a sentence

Hygiene

Definition: The practice of keeping clean to maintain health.

• Good hygiene is important for staying healthy.
• He learned about personal hygiene in health class.
• She practices hygiene by washing her hands regularly.

Hygiene in a sentence

Visit

Definition: To go to see someone or a place.

• We will visit our grandparents this weekend.
• She wants to visit the museum during the school trip.
• I plan to visit my friend after school.

Visit in a sentence

Cleaning

Definition: The act of removing dirt, dust, or unwanted items from a place.

• She is cleaning her room to prepare for guests.
• Cleaning the house takes some time every week.
• Understanding cleaning techniques can help maintain a tidy space.

Cleaning in a sentence

Tooth

Definition: One of the hard structures in the mouth used for biting.

• I lost a tooth when I was a child.
• She brushed her tooth every day.
• He visited the dentist to fix his tooth.

Tooth in a sentence

Check-up

Definition: A medical examination to assess health.

• He scheduled a check-up with his doctor.
• Regular check-ups are important for staying healthy.
• She always goes for a check-up once a year.

File

Definition: A collection of documents or data stored together.

• I need to organize my files on the computer.
• He saved the file in a new folder.
• Please check the file for the latest updates.

File in a sentence

Payment

Definition: Money given for goods or services.

• I made my payment for the concert tickets.
• The payment is due at the end of the month.
• We can process your payment online.

Payment in a sentence

Assist

Definition: To help someone with a task or problem.

• I will assist you with your homework if you need help.
• The teacher asked me to assist my classmates during the project.
• Doctors assist patients in getting better.

Assist in a sentence

Referral

Definition: the act of directing someone to a different person or place

• She received a referral to a specialist for her condition.
• The doctor made a referral for further testing.
• He appreciated the referral to the best dentist in town.

Referral in a sentence

Emergency

Definition: A serious situation requiring immediate action.

• Call 911 in case of an emergency.
• They practiced emergency drills at school.
• He handled the emergency with calmness.

Emergency in a sentence

Procedure

Definition: a series of steps to accomplish a task

• Follow the procedure to complete the assignment.
• The procedure for the experiment was explained.
• He learned the procedure for making cookies.

Procedure in a sentence

Extraction

Definition: The process of removing something from a source, often used in contexts like data or resources.

• The extraction of minerals from the earth can be harmful.
• She learned about the extraction of DNA in science class.
• Extraction methods vary depending on the material.

Extraction in a sentence

Filling

Definition: The material used to fill a space, such as in a pastry or a tooth.

• The pie had a delicious apple filling.
• She chose chocolate filling for her cake.
• Filling can enhance the flavor of many dishes.

Filling in a sentence

Consultation

Definition: A meeting to discuss or seek advice on a topic.

• She had a consultation with a doctor.
• The consultation helped clarify their options.
• They scheduled a consultation for the project.

Consultation in a sentence

Records

Definition: Documents or pieces of information that are kept for reference or evidence.

• The school keeps records of all student grades.
• She checked the records for attendance.
• Understanding records is important for organization.

Follow-up

Definition: an action that comes after an initial action; checking on something

• She scheduled a follow-up appointment with the doctor.
• The teacher did a follow-up on the students’ progress.
• A follow-up email can help clarify any questions.

Orthodontics

Definition: the branch of dentistry focused on correcting teeth

• Orthodontics helps align teeth for better function.
• She is training in orthodontics to become a specialist.
• Understanding orthodontics can improve oral health.

Orthodontics in a sentence

Diagnosis

Definition: The identification of a disease or problem based on symptoms.

• The doctor made a diagnosis after the exam.
• She received a diagnosis of a mild illness.
• He explained the diagnosis to the patient.

Diagnosis in a sentence

Anesthesia

Definition: A medical treatment that prevents pain during surgery; a state of controlled unconsciousness.

• The doctor explained the anesthesia process before surgery.
• He felt no pain because of the anesthesia.
• Anesthesia is crucial for many medical procedures.

Anesthesia in a sentence

Billing

Definition: the process of sending bills for payments

• They handle the billing for the company.
• She checked her billing statement for errors.
• Billing can be done online for convenience.

Billing in a sentence

Examination

Definition: a detailed inspection or test

• The examination covered all the material we studied.
• She was nervous about her final examination.
• He passed the examination with flying colors.

Examination in a sentence

Periodontal

Definition: Relating to the structures around and supporting the teeth.

• She visited the dentist for a periodontal check-up.
• Periodontal health is important for overall well-being.
• The doctor explained the importance of periodontal care.

Periodontal in a sentence

Restoration

Definition: The act of returning something to its original condition or state.

• The restoration of the old building took several years.
• They worked on the restoration of the painting.
• Understanding restoration helps preserve history.

Restoration in a sentence

Symptoms

Definition: physical or mental signs of an illness

• Common symptoms of the flu include fever and cough.
• He noted the symptoms and reported them to the doctor.
• She learned to recognize the symptoms of allergies.

Charting

Definition: The process of creating charts to display information visually.

• Charting data helps us understand trends.
• She is charting the results of the experiment.
• They spent the afternoon charting their progress.

Charting in a sentence

Prophylaxis

Definition: Preventive treatment to protect against disease.

• Vaccination is a form of prophylaxis against illness.
• The doctor recommended prophylaxis for travelers.
• Prophylaxis can reduce the risk of infection.

Prophylaxis in a sentence

Radiography

Definition: the use of X-rays to see inside objects or bodies

• Radiography is used to check for broken bones.
• The doctor ordered a radiography of her ankle.
• She studied radiography in her medical program.

Radiography in a sentence

Hygienist

Definition: A professional who specializes in dental hygiene and care.

• The dental hygienist cleaned my teeth and gave advice.
• She wants to become a dental hygienist after college.
• The hygienist emphasized the importance of brushing daily.

Hygienist in a sentence

Demographics

Definition: Statistical data about populations, such as age, race, and gender.

• Demographics help businesses understand their customers.
• They analyzed demographics for their marketing strategy.
• Understanding demographics is essential for effective planning.

Treatment Plan

Definition: A detailed plan outlining the course of treatment for a patient.

• The doctor created a treatment plan for her recovery.
• Following the treatment plan is essential for healing.
• Understanding treatment plans is important for patient care.

Patient Records

Definition: Documents that contain information about a patient's medical history and treatment.

• Patient records are essential for providing quality healthcare.
• She reviewed the patient records to prepare for the appointment.
• Understanding patient records supports effective medical practice.

Compliance

Definition: Following rules or standards.

• The company is in compliance with safety regulations.
• They ensured compliance with the new laws.
• She checked for compliance with the guidelines.

Compliance in a sentence

Sedation

Definition: The process of calming a patient using medication, often before a procedure.

• The doctor used sedation to help her relax.
• Sedation is common for dental procedures.
• They discussed sedation options with the patient.

Sedation in a sentence

Reimbursement

Definition: The act of paying back money spent.

• He received reimbursement for his work expenses.
• The reimbursement process can take a few days.
• Understanding reimbursement policies is important.

Reimbursement in a sentence

Prognosis

Definition: A forecast of the likely outcome of a situation.

• The doctor gave a positive prognosis for recovery.
• Her prognosis after the treatment was encouraging.
• He remained hopeful despite the difficult prognosis.

Prognosis in a sentence

Instrumentation

Definition: The use of instruments to measure or control processes.

• Instrumentation is essential in scientific experiments.
• The laboratory has advanced instrumentation for research.
• He learned about instrumentation in his engineering course.

Instrumentation in a sentence

Sterilization

Definition: The process of making something free from bacteria or other living microorganisms.

• Sterilization is crucial in medical settings to prevent infection.
• The dentist used sterilization methods for his tools.
• They practiced sterilization techniques in the lab.

Sterilization in a sentence

Orthodontist

Definition: a dentist specializing in orthodontics

• The orthodontist recommended braces for her teeth.
• He visited the orthodontist for an evaluation.
• Understanding the role of an orthodontist is key in dental care.

Orthodontist in a sentence

Endodontics

Definition: The branch of dentistry that deals with the treatment of dental pulp and root issues.

• Endodontics focuses on saving damaged teeth.
• He specialized in endodontics to help patients in pain.
• Understanding endodontics is important for dental health.

Endodontics in a sentence

Dental Assistant

Definition: A professional who helps dentists during procedures and manages patient care.

• The dental assistant prepared the tools for the dentist.
• She works as a dental assistant at a local clinic.
• Understanding the role of a dental assistant is vital in dentistry.

Dental Assistant in a sentence

Oral Hygiene

Definition: The practice of keeping the mouth clean and healthy.

• Brushing and flossing are important for oral hygiene.
• Good oral hygiene prevents dental problems.
• She visits the dentist regularly for oral hygiene.

Fluoride

Definition: A mineral that helps prevent tooth decay.

• Fluoride is often added to toothpaste.
• Drinking water may contain fluoride for dental health.
• The dentist recommended fluoride treatments.

Fluoride in a sentence

Plaque

Definition: A flat, thin piece of metal or other material, often used for display; can also refer to a buildup in arteries.

• The plaque on the wall commemorates the building's history.
• He received a plaque for his achievement in sports.
• Dental plaque can lead to cavities if not removed.

Plaque in a sentence

Tartar

Definition: A dish made from raw meat or fish, often seasoned; also refers to a buildup of plaque on teeth.

• He ordered steak tartar at the restaurant.
• Tartar sauce is usually served with seafood.
• She visited the dentist to remove tartar from her teeth.

Tartar in a sentence

Crown

Definition: A decorative headpiece worn by royalty as a symbol of power.

• The queen wore a beautiful crown during the ceremony.
• He was crowned king in a grand celebration.
• The crown is often made of precious metals and jewels.

Crown in a sentence

Bridge

Definition: A structure built to cross over a river, road, or other obstacles.

• They walked across the bridge to get to the park.
• The bridge connects the two cities.
• She took a photo of the beautiful bridge.

Bridge in a sentence

Implant

Definition: to place something into a living organism

• The doctor will implant the device in her arm.
• They decided to implant the seeds in the garden.
• He learned about the process of implanting organs.

Implant in a sentence

Veneer

Definition: a thin layer covering something

• The table has a beautiful wood veneer.
• He used a veneer to give the furniture a polished look.
• The veneer makes the old wood look new.

Veneer in a sentence

Occlusion

Definition: The act of closing or blocking; in dentistry, how teeth fit together when biting.

• The occlusion of the airway can lead to health issues.
• He learned about occlusion in his dental studies.
• Proper occlusion is crucial for effective chewing.

Occlusion in a sentence

Periodontal Disease

Definition: A serious infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.

• Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss if untreated.
• He learned about the symptoms of periodontal disease in class.
• Regular brushing helps prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal Disease in a sentence

Caries

Definition: Decay or infection in a tooth; cavities.

• He has caries and needs a dentist.
• Regular brushing helps prevent caries.
• She learned about caries in her health class.

Caries in a sentence

Anesthetic

Definition: a substance that induces insensitivity to pain

• The doctor used an anesthetic during the procedure.
• She was given an anesthetic before her surgery.
• Anesthetic agents help patients feel no pain.

Anesthetic in a sentence

Oral Surgeon

Definition: a dentist specializing in surgery of the mouth and jaw

• The oral surgeon removed her wisdom teeth.
• She consulted an oral surgeon for her jaw pain.
• Oral surgeons perform complex dental surgeries.

Temporomandibular Joint

Definition: the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull

• The temporomandibular joint allows for jaw movement.
• He learned about the temporomandibular joint in anatomy class.
• Problems with the temporomandibular joint can cause pain.

Temporomandibular Joint in a sentence

Occlusal

Definition: Relating to the surfaces of teeth that come together when biting.

• The dentist examined the occlusal surfaces of his teeth.
• Occlusal wear can affect chewing.
• Understanding occlusal relationships is important in dentistry.

Occlusal in a sentence

Dentition

Definition: The arrangement or condition of teeth in a particular species.

• Human dentition includes baby teeth and adult teeth.
• The dentist studied her dentition to plan treatment.
• Understanding dentition is important for dental professionals.

Dentition in a sentence

Radiograph

Definition: an image produced on a sensitive surface by radiation

• The doctor examined the radiograph to check for fractures.
• She had a radiograph taken of her teeth.
• Radiographs are useful in diagnosing medical conditions.

Radiograph in a sentence

Periodontal Maintenance

Definition: Ongoing care to keep the gums and teeth healthy after treatment.

• They scheduled a periodontal maintenance appointment every six months.
• Good oral hygiene is essential for periodontal maintenance.
• She followed the dentist's advice for effective periodontal maintenance.

Patient Education

Definition: The process of providing information to patients about their health and care options.

• Patient education is crucial for informed decision-making.
• The doctor focused on patient education during the visit.
• Understanding patient education improves health outcomes.

Triage

Definition: The process of determining the priority of patients' treatments based on the severity of their condition.

• In an emergency, triage helps doctors manage patients.
• She learned about triage during her medical training.
• Effective triage can save lives in critical situations.

Triage in a sentence

Emergency Care

Definition: Immediate medical attention given in urgent situations.

• Emergency care is crucial for saving lives.
• She learned how to provide emergency care in her training.
• The hospital provides emergency care 24/7.

Consent Form

Definition: A document that gives permission for something to happen.

• Students must sign a consent form for field trips.
• The consent form included important safety information.
• She filled out the consent form before participating.

Scheduling

Definition: The process of planning and organizing events, tasks, or activities.

• Scheduling classes helps students manage their time.
• He uses a planner for effective scheduling.
• Understanding scheduling improves organization skills.

Scheduling in a sentence

Workflow

Definition: The sequence of processes through which a piece of work passes from initiation to completion.

• Understanding workflow helps improve productivity.
• She designed a new workflow for the project team.
• Effective workflow management can streamline operations.

Workflow in a sentence

Communication

Definition: The process of sharing information between people.

• Good communication is key to teamwork.
• We use different methods of communication, like texting.
• Effective communication helps prevent misunderstandings.

Communication in a sentence

Professionalism

Definition: The conduct, behavior, and attitude expected in a professional setting.

• Showing professionalism is important in any job.
• He demonstrated professionalism during the meeting.
• Her professionalism impressed the hiring manager.

Professionalism in a sentence

Empathy

Definition: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

• She showed empathy toward her friend's situation.
• Empathy is important for building strong relationships.
• He learned about empathy in his social studies class.

Empathy in a sentence

Confidentiality

Definition: The state of keeping information secret or private.

• The company values the confidentiality of its clients.
• She signed an agreement to ensure confidentiality.
• Maintaining confidentiality is important in counseling.

Confidentiality in a sentence

Multitasking

Definition: The ability to manage multiple tasks at the same time.

• He is good at multitasking during busy hours.
• Multitasking can improve productivity in the workplace.
• She practiced multitasking while cooking and cleaning.

Multitasking in a sentence

Organization

Definition: A group of people working together for a purpose.

• The organization helps people in need.
• She volunteers for a charity organization.
• The organization focuses on education and health.

Organization in a sentence

Customer Service.

Definition: assistance provided to customers before, during, and after a purchase

• Good customer service can lead to repeat business.
• She works in customer service and helps customers daily.
• They trained staff to enhance customer service skills.

Amalgam

Definition: A mixture of different elements, often used in dentistry.

• Dental amalgam is used for filling cavities.
• The scientist created an amalgam of metals for the experiment.
• Amalgam can refer to various combinations of ideas.

Amalgam in a sentence

Composite

Definition: Made of multiple parts or elements.

• A composite material combines strength and lightweight properties.
• The painting was a composite of different styles and techniques.
• Composite structures are commonly used in engineering.

Composite in a sentence

Orthodontic Appliance

Definition: a device used to correct teeth alignment

• The orthodontic appliance helped straighten her teeth.
• They adjusted the orthodontic appliance during the appointment.
• Understanding orthodontic appliances is crucial for oral health.

Patient Management

Definition: overseeing the care and treatment of patients

• Patient management ensures quality health care.
• She learned about patient management in her training.
• Effective patient management improves health outcomes.

Dental Records

Definition: Documents that contain a patient's dental history and treatment details.

• The dentist reviewed her dental records before the appointment.
• Keeping accurate dental records is important for patient care.
• Understanding dental records helps in tracking health.