Vocabulary Words Every Dental Secretary Should Know

Dental

Definition: Relating to teeth or dentistry.

• He has a dental appointment to get his teeth checked.
• Dental health is important for overall well-being.
• She learned about dental procedures in her class.

Dental 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

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

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

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

Check

Definition: To look at something to verify its accuracy; a written order for payment.

• Please check your answers before submitting.
• He wrote a check to pay for the groceries.
• She will check the schedule for the meeting.

Check 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

Gum

Definition: A chewy substance used for freshening breath or as candy.

• He likes to chew gum during class.
• She bought a pack of gum from the store.
• The gum lost its flavor quickly.

Gum 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

Fill

Definition: To make something full.

• Please fill the glass with water.
• He wanted to fill the bucket with sand.
• She will fill the form later.

Fill 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

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

Chart

Definition: A visual representation of data or information.

• We used a chart to show our progress.
• The chart displays the results of the survey.
• Can you read this chart for me?

Chart in a sentence

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

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

Care

Definition: To look after someone or something; to be concerned about.

• I care about my family and friends.
• Please take care of your pets.
• The doctor will care for the patients.

Care in a sentence

Mouth

Definition: The opening in the face used for eating and speaking.

• She opened her mouth to speak.
• The fish has a small mouth compared to its body.
• Understanding the mouth's functions is important in biology.

Mouth 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

Record

Definition: To capture or store information; a written account of something.

• I will record the lecture for later.
• They set a new record in the race.
• She likes to record her thoughts in a journal.

Record 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

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

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

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

Consent

Definition: Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.

• You need to get parental consent for the field trip.
• He gave his consent to share the information.
• Understanding consent is important in many situations.

Consent 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

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.

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

Receptionist

Definition: A person who greets visitors and handles inquiries at a front desk.

• The receptionist answered the phone politely.
• She works as a receptionist at a busy office.
• The receptionist helped me find the right room.

Receptionist in a sentence

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prosthesis

Definition: an artificial device that replaces a missing body part

• The prosthesis allowed him to walk again after the accident.
• She fitted her patient with a new prosthesis.
• Advancements in prosthesis technology improve mobility.

Prosthesis in a sentence

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

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

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

Observation

Definition: The act of watching something carefully to gain information.

• Her observation of the stars was amazing.
• He made an observation about the weather.
• The scientist's observation helped with the research.

Observation in a sentence

Assessment

Definition: An evaluation or test to measure knowledge or skills.

• The teacher gave an assessment to check our progress.
• We will have a math assessment next week.
• Assessments help identify areas to improve.

Assessment in a sentence

Medication

Definition: A substance used to treat an illness or condition.

• He takes medication for his allergies.
• The doctor prescribed medication for her cough.
• She learned about different types of medication.

Medication 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

Equipment

Definition: Tools or devices used for a specific purpose.

• We need new equipment for the science lab.
• The gym has all the right equipment for workouts.
• She bought equipment for her photography hobby.

Equipment in a sentence

Materials

Definition: Substances or components used to create something.

• We need to gather materials for our science project.
• Different materials can affect the quality of a product.
• She chose eco-friendly materials for her artwork.

Materials in a sentence

Practice

Definition: To repeat an activity to improve skills.

• He needs to practice playing the piano.
• She practices soccer every day.
• Practice makes perfect in any sport.

Practice in a sentence

Clinic

Definition: A place where people receive medical treatment.

• He visited the clinic for a check-up.
• The clinic offers free vaccinations.
• The clinic is open every Saturday.

Clinic in a sentence

Orthodontic

Definition: related to the branch of dentistry that deals with correcting teeth

• She is studying orthodontic techniques to help patients.
• Orthodontic treatment can improve smiles.
• Understanding orthodontic practices is important in dental care.

Orthodontic in a sentence

Preventive

Definition: Intended to stop something unwanted from happening.

• Preventive measures can keep you healthy.
• She takes preventive steps to avoid illness.
• Regular check-ups are a form of preventive care.

Preventive in a sentence

Restorative

Definition: Having the ability to restore health or well-being.

• Yoga is known for its restorative benefits.
• The restorative effects of nature are well-documented.
• She enjoys restorative practices like meditation.

Restorative in a sentence

Radiology

Definition: The branch of medicine that uses imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases.

• Radiology helps doctors see inside the body.
• She is training in radiology to become a technician.
• Understanding radiology is important in healthcare.

Radiology 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.

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.

Follow-up Care

Definition: medical care provided after the initial treatment

• Follow-up care is essential after surgery.
• The nurse explained the follow-up care I would need.
• He received follow-up care to ensure he was healing well.

Patient History

Definition: A record of a patient's past medical conditions, treatments, and relevant family history.

• The doctor reviewed her patient history before the exam.
• Understanding patient history is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
• She provided her patient history during the visit.

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

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

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

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

Malocclusion

Definition: improper alignment of the teeth

• She visited the orthodontist for her malocclusion.
• Malocclusion can affect biting and chewing.
• He learned about malocclusion in his dental class.

Malocclusion 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

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

Impression

Definition: An effect or influence produced on someone; a mark left by pressure.

• He made a good impression on his first day at school.
• Her painting left a lasting impression on the viewers.
• The first impression is often very important.

Impression 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

Dental Implant

Definition: A surgical component placed in the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis.

• She received a dental implant to replace her missing tooth.
• Dental implants can improve chewing ability.
• Understanding dental implants helps in making informed choices.

Dental Implant in a sentence

Calculus

Definition: A branch of mathematics that studies change and motion through derivatives and integrals.

• She is studying calculus in her senior year.
• Calculus is important for understanding physics.
• He found calculus challenging but rewarding.

Calculus in a sentence

Periodontal Pocket

Definition: A space that forms between the gum and tooth due to gum disease.

• The dentist measured her periodontal pockets during the exam.
• Deep periodontal pockets can indicate severe gum disease.
• Cleaning periodontal pockets is important for oral health.

Temporomandibular

Definition: related to the jaw joint

• She visited the dentist for temporomandibular issues.
• Understanding temporomandibular function is important for oral health.
• The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull.

Temporomandibular in a sentence

Aesthetic

Definition: Related to beauty or the appreciation of beauty.

• The painting has a unique aesthetic that captivates viewers.
• She studies aesthetic values in art and design.
• Understanding aesthetic principles enhances creativity.

Aesthetic in a sentence

Orthodontic Appliances

Definition: plural of orthodontic appliance; devices for teeth alignment

• Orthodontic appliances include braces and retainers.
• She wore orthodontic appliances for two years.
• Understanding orthodontic appliances helps in treatment planning.

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

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.

Oral Health

Definition: The practice of maintaining healthy teeth and gums; relates to dental care.

• Oral health is important for overall well-being.
• She visits the dentist regularly to ensure her oral health.
• Good oral health includes brushing and flossing daily.

Preventive Care

Definition: Healthcare measures taken to prevent illness rather than treating it.

• Preventive care includes regular check-ups and vaccinations.
• She prioritizes preventive care to maintain her health.
• Understanding preventive care enhances health awareness.

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.

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.

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

Oral Surgery

Definition: Surgical procedures performed on the mouth and jaw.

• Oral surgery can correct dental issues and improve health.
• He needed oral surgery to remove his wisdom teeth.
• Understanding oral surgery is important for dental care.

Interproximal

Definition: Referring to the space between adjacent teeth.

• Interproximal brushes can help clean between teeth.
• The dentist recommended interproximal cleaning for better hygiene.
• She used an interproximal tool to reach tight spaces.

Interproximal 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

Abutment

Definition: a structure built to support the ends of a bridge

• The abutment of the bridge was reinforced last year.
• Engineers studied the abutment carefully before construction.
• The old abutment showed signs of wear.

Abutment in a sentence

Occlusal Adjustment

Definition: A procedure to modify the biting surfaces of teeth to improve alignment.

• The dentist performed an occlusal adjustment to help with his bite.
• She needed an occlusal adjustment for better comfort.
• Occlusal adjustments can relieve jaw pain.

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

Enamel

Definition: A hard, glossy coating that protects teeth or ceramics; also used in art and jewelry.

• The enamel on her teeth was bright and healthy.
• He applied enamel to the pottery for a shiny finish.
• Enamel can come in many colors for crafts.

Enamel in a sentence

Dentin

Definition: The hard tissue beneath the enamel of a tooth.

• Dentin is sensitive and can cause pain when exposed.
• She learned that dentin helps protect the tooth's nerve.
• Understanding dentin is essential for dental health.

Dentin in a sentence

Gingivitis

Definition: An inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque buildup.

• She was diagnosed with gingivitis and needed treatment.
• Good brushing can prevent gingivitis.
• He learned about gingivitis in his health class.

Gingivitis 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

Orthodontic Treatment

Definition: the process of correcting teeth and jaw alignment

• He began orthodontic treatment to improve his bite.
• Orthodontic treatment can take several months.
• Understanding orthodontic treatment options is important for patients.

Oral Pathology

Definition: the study of diseases affecting the mouth and surrounding areas

• Oral pathology helps diagnose conditions like infections.
• He is studying oral pathology to become a dentist.
• Understanding oral pathology is important for treating patients.

Clinical Procedures

Definition: Standardized methods used in medical settings to treat patients.

• The nurse followed clinical procedures for administering medication.
• He learned about clinical procedures during his training.
• Understanding clinical procedures helps ensure patient safety.

Dentifrice

Definition: A substance used for cleaning teeth, such as toothpaste.

• He uses a mint-flavored dentifrice for fresh breath.
• The dentifrice contains fluoride for stronger teeth.
• Understanding dentifrice is important for dental hygiene.

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

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.

Demographic

Definition: Related to the statistics of populations, such as age, race, and gender.

• The demographic data showed a young population.
• She analyzed the demographic trends of the city.
• Demographic studies help understand social changes.

Demographic in a sentence

Coding

Definition: The process of writing instructions for computers using programming languages.

• She enjoys coding websites and apps.
• He learned coding in his computer science class.
• Coding skills are essential in today's job market.

Coding in a sentence