Dentistry · Dental System · Hard

Periodontal

Meaning: Relating to the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth.

In practice: Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss if untreated.

Word parts

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Two questions on related dentistry words.

Which word means: A hole in a tooth caused by bacterial acid erosion of enamel.

Which word means: The third and final set of molars, typically erupting in late teens.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.