Radiograph: x-ray (either digital or conventional)

Prophylaxis: a routine cleaning of the teeth where soft and hard deposits are removed from above the gumline and remaining plaque and stain are removed by polishing

Root planning and scaling (or deep scaling): removal of soft and hard deposits from below the gumline, usually performed with the use of local or topical anesthesia

Gross debridement: an initial cleaning that removes the majority of soft and hard deposits from above the gumline, needed in cases of very heavy hard deposits, follow-up visits are needed

Fine scaling: a follow-up cleaning to gross debridement, includes removal of all soft and hard deposits from above and below the gumline

Periodontal maintenance cleaning: done after root planning and scaling is completed, includes removal of hard and soft deposits from above and the below the gumline and re-measuring “pockets” or deep probing depths at each visit, usually done every 2-4 months

Periodontal probing: measuring the space between the gums and the teeth in millimeters

Fluoride: usually applied to patients’ teeth in gel or foam form, recommended for all patients less than 17 years of age and some high risk/cavity-prone adult patients, can help reverse demineralized areas (those with less enamel)

Desensitizing agents: a liquid or gel-like substance applied to area of extreme tooth sensitivity-especially in areas of gum recession

Topical anesthesia: application of a liquid or gel that numbs the gums only

Localized anesthesia: injection of one of the liquid anesthetics with or without epinephrine, which numbs the gums and the teeth

Sealants: a plastic-like material used to fill in the deep grooves of the teeth, usually the permanent molars, to decrease the chance of cavities forming