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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 Y

Here are 7 common dental terms that start with the letter Y, explained in plain English by the team at Cornerstone Dentistry in Anderson.

1. YAG Laser (Nd:YAG / Er:YAG): Types of dental lasers named for their yttrium-aluminum-garnet crystal. They’re used for some gum and soft-tissue procedures, and Er:YAG lasers can also remove small amounts of tooth structure.
2. Yaws: A tropical bacterial infection of the skin and bones. It’s rare in the United States, but late stages can damage bones of the face.
3. Yeast Infection (Oral Thrush): A fungal infection, usually caused by Candida, that leaves creamy white patches on the tongue, cheeks or palate. It’s more common in denture wearers, after antibiotics, with dry mouth or diabetes, and in people who use inhaled steroids.
4. Yellow Teeth: Teeth that look yellow from surface stains (coffee, tea, tobacco), aging as enamel thins and shows the dentin underneath, genetics, or some medications. Many cases improve with professional teeth whitening.
5. Young Permanent Tooth: A newly erupted adult tooth whose root isn’t fully formed yet. The root keeps developing for a few years after the tooth comes in.
6. Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia: A very strong, tooth-colored ceramic used for crowns, bridges and implant parts. Yttrium oxide is added to keep the zirconia stable and resistant to cracking.
7. Yttrium: A metallic element. In dentistry it’s mainly used, as yttrium oxide, to stabilize zirconia crowns and in YAG lasers.

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