the sigma dentistry class

Here are your flashcards formatted as Term - Definition for easy studying:


Tooth Anatomy & Development

Clinical Crown - Visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.
Anatomical Crown - Entire portion of the tooth covered by enamel, even below the gumline.


Prenatal Development Periods & Timeline

Pre-implantation Period - First week; fertilization occurs.
Embryonic Period - 2-8 weeks; major organs and facial structures form.
Fetal Period - 9 weeks-birth; growth and maturation of organs.

4th Week of Development - Face and oral cavity begin forming.
5th Week of Development - Tooth development initiates.
17th Week of Development - Primary teeth begin mineralizing.
Fourth Month of Development - Hard and soft palates develop.


Tooth Growth & Structure

Bud Stage - Initial growth of tooth bud.
Cap Stage - Cells differentiate, and tooth shape forms.
Bell Stage - Enamel and dentin formation begins.


Tooth Layers

Enamel - Hard outer layer, protects the tooth.
Dentin - Bulk of the tooth, transmits sensations.
Pulp - Nerve and blood supply inside the tooth.
Cementum - Covers the root and anchors the tooth to the bone.


Tooth Classification & Function

Incisors - Cutting food.
Canines - Tearing food.
Premolars - Grinding and crushing food.
Molars - Heavy grinding and chewing.


Tooth Surfaces

Mesial - Side closest to the midline.
Distal - Side furthest from the midline.
Facial/Buccal - Outer surface (cheek/lip side).
Lingual - Inner surface (tongue side).
Occlusal/Incisal - Biting surface.


Fluoride Types

Systemic Fluoride - Ingested (water, supplements).
Topical Fluoride - Applied directly (toothpaste, treatments).


Dental Specialties

General Dentist - Provides routine care, fillings, exams.
Dental Hygienist - Performs cleanings, educates on oral hygiene.
Periodontist - Treats gum disease, places implants.
Oral Surgeon - Performs extractions, jaw surgeries.
Endodontist - Treats root canals.
Prosthodontist - Specializes in dentures, crowns, implants.
Forensic Dentist - Identifies individuals using dental records.
Pediatric Dentist - Treats children’s teeth.
Orthodontist - Corrects misaligned teeth with braces.


Radiographs & Purpose

Bitewing X-ray - Detects cavities between teeth.
Periapical X-ray - Focuses on the root and surrounding bone.
Panoramic X-ray - Full view of upper and lower jaws.


Tooth Decay & Prevention

Streptococcus Mutans - Bacteria that initiates decay.
Lactobacilli - Bacteria contributing to deep cavities.

Cavity Formation Factors - Bacteria (Plaque) + Sugar + Susceptible Tooth.

Dental Sealants - Protective coating placed on pits and fissures to prevent cavities.

Demineralization - Loss of minerals from enamel.
Remineralization - Minerals re-enter enamel.


Caries Development Stages

Incipient Caries - Early, reversible stage of decay.
Frank Caries - Visible decay.
Secondary Caries - Forms around restorations.
Rampant Caries - Severe, multiple cavities.


Importance of Saliva

Physical Role - Washes away food debris.
Chemical Role - Neutralizes acids.
Antibacterial Role - Fights cavity-causing bacteria.


Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis

Gingivitis - Early-stage, reversible gum inflammation.
Periodontitis - Severe gum disease, leading to bone loss.


Systemic Connection of Periodontal Disease

Health Conditions Linked to Gum Disease - Heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications.


Oral Hygiene Guidelines

Soft-Bristled Toothbrush - Recommended for gentle cleaning.
Toothbrush Replacement - Every 3 months.
Flossing Shape - "C" shape around each tooth.

Bass Method - Proper brushing technique (45° angle to gums).


Caries Prevention Methods

  1. Brushing & Flossing - Removes plaque.

  2. Fluoride Use - Strengthens enamel.

  3. Sealants - Protects grooves in teeth.

  4. Dietary Changes - Limit sugar intake.


Historical Contributions in Dentistry

Wilhelm Roentgen - Discovered X-rays.
Horace Wells - Discovered nitrous oxide anesthesia.
Leonardo da Vinci - Identified premolars & molars.
Paul Revere - Early forensic dentistry.
Hesi-Re - First recorded dentist.
Irene Newman - First dental hygienist.
Alfred Fones - First to employ a dental hygienist.
C. Edmund Kells - First dental assistant.
Ancient Arabians - Introduced the Siwak toothbrush.
Diocles of Carystus - Promoted oral hygiene.
Hippocrates - "Father of Medicine."
Hippocratic Oath - Ethical medical code.
Ambroise Paré - "Father of Modern Surgery."
Pierre Fauchard - "Father of Modern Dentistry."
Ambroise Paré - First to use artificial limbs.
Isaac Greenwood - First American-born dentist.
Frederick McKay - Discovered fluoride’s benefits.
Lucy Hobbs-Taylor - First female dentist.
Ida Gray Nelson - First African American female dentist.


G.V. Black’s Contributions

  1. Developed cavity classification system.

  2. Improved dental instruments.

  3. Defined principles of cavity preparation.


Dentition Periods

Primary Dentition - Baby teeth.
Mixed Dentition - Both primary & permanent teeth present.
Permanent Dentition - All adult teeth present.


Patient Education Guidelines

  1. Assess Patient Knowledge - Understand current oral hygiene habits.

  2. Explain Importance of Oral Care - Prevent disease and decay.

  3. Demonstrate Proper Techniques - Brushing, flossing.

  4. Provide Personalized Recommendations - Tailored advice.

  5. Encourage Regular Dental Visits - Prevention and early treatment.


These flashcards should help you study efficiently! Let me know if you need any modifications. 😊