L

At Cornerstone Dentistry, we understand that dental jargon can be confusing, leaving patients feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their oral health. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive dental glossary tailored just for you. Our commitment to patient care goes beyond your dental chair experience; we want you to be well-informed and empowered when it comes to your oral health.

With our user-friendly glossary, you can easily access explanations of dental terms, procedures, and treatments, helping you make informed decisions about your dental care. Take charge of your oral health with Cornerstone Dentistry’s Dental Glossary. Explore it today!

Dental Terms That Start With L

Here are 12 common dental terms that start with the letter L, explained in plain English by the team at Cornerstone Dentistry in Anderson.

1. Laceration: A cut or tear in the lips, tongue, cheeks or gums, often from an injury.
2. Laminate Veneer: A thin shell of porcelain or composite bonded to the front of a tooth to improve its color, shape or size. See cosmetic dentistry.
3. Laser Dentistry: The use of dental lasers for procedures such as gum reshaping, some gum disease treatment and removing small areas of tissue.
4. Lateral Incisor: The second tooth from the center on each side, top and bottom.
5. Lesion: Any area of abnormal tissue in the mouth, such as a sore, spot, bump or patch.
6. Leukoplakia: A white patch in the mouth that can’t be wiped off. Some are linked to tobacco use and a small number can become cancerous, so they should always be examined.
7. Lichen Planus (Oral): A long-term inflammatory condition that can cause lacy white lines, redness or sore areas inside the cheeks and on the gums.
8. Lingual: The side of a tooth that faces the tongue.
9. Lingual Braces: Braces attached to the back (tongue side) of the teeth so they’re hidden from view.
10. Local Anesthesia: Numbing medicine injected near a tooth or area of the mouth so a procedure is painless while you stay awake.
11. Luting Agent: Dental cement used to attach crowns, bridges, inlays and other restorations to teeth.
12. Luxation: An injury that loosens or moves a tooth out of its normal position without knocking it out. It needs prompt emergency dental care.

Have a question about a term you don’t see here? Ask us at your next visit.