ROOT PLANNING

the removal of hard deposits, with metal scalers, on the root surface and smoothing the root surface to allow for reattachment of the gums to the tooth and ultimately pocket reduction

B

benzocaine: A local anesthetic applied to the skin or mucous membranes, particularly around the mouth and throat, for the relief of pain. Benzocaine numbs the pain by blocking the nerve. It is available, alone or combined with other drugs, in the form of sprays, creams, gels, lotions, suppositories, or lozenges and can be obtained without a prescription.

bonding: the covering of a tooth surface to correct stained or damaged teeth, by painting a layer of plastic on the tooth.

bridge: artificial teeth used to replace missing teeth that are attached, usually on both sides, by crowns to adjacent teeth.

bruxism: the rubbing or grinding of teeth usually during sleep.