Glossary.

Specially-trained dental assistant who performs certain medical duties for patients in the dental practice such as removing tartar, for example, as well as providing instruction on oral hygiene and preventive care.

Workshop in which dental technicians manufacture individual dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, dentures or fillings using manual techniques.

Represents a large part of the tooth. In contrast to enamel, a lifelong neoformation through the process of biomineralization is possible.

Refers to a tooth in which the nerve of the tooth (pulp) is dead.

In humans, the space between the inner incisors.

Determination of the tooth shade, e.g. for a filling or a crown, using a digital shade-taking device known as a spectrophotometer (e.g. VITA Easyshade).

Term that refers to positioning towards the end of the dental arch.

Areas of oral mucosa with underlying jaw bones that transmit the chewing forces striking on the prosthesis. The quality of the denture-supporting area is decisive for the good functionality of the denture.

Prosthetical measure for the replacement of lost tooth substance. A distinction is made between removable dental restorations (partial dentures and full dentures) and fixed dental restorations (veneer, filling, partial crown, crown, bridge, implant). Fixed dental restorations are cemented.

see pulp

In Germany, according to the Crafts and Trade Code, this is a recognized profession that requires training. Generally the training lasts for 3.5 years. Dental technicians manufacture dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, partial and full dentures, (“false teeth”), pivot teeth and orthodontic appliances (clasp brackets).