Skip to content
201 - 8706 Franklin Ave
Fort McMurray, Alberta
Office Hours


Monday to Thursday: 9 am–6 pm
Friday: 8:30 am–4 pm
Saturday: 9 am–2 pm
Sunday: Closed

Check Financing Eligibility

6 Important Dental Terms and Treatments Explained - Part 3

Published on: May 22nd, 2019

Following up from last week’s blog, we want to inform you of some terms and treatments you may need to understand before your next dental appointment.
It’s always a good idea to know what is happening with your oral health. Beyond the usual terms like cavities, crowns and cleaning, there is a whole list of dental terminology you may come across.

Microabrasion

Do you have irregularities and intrinsic stains on the surfaces of your tooth enamel? Speak to your dentist about microabrasion.

Your dentist can use a mechanical technique to remove small tooth impurities that can help rid you of aesthetic concerns. Unlike tooth whitening, where the change is a result of a chemical reaction, microabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure using an abrasive substance to improve the look of your enamel.
As an added bonus, this treatment can reduce the risk of chipped or fractured teeth.

Necessary Treatment

A treatment deemed necessary by your dentist for your oral health. A necessary treatment might be as simples as a cleaning or something involving a little bit more work like a root canal.

Performing necessary treatments help protect your teeth and gums. Think of it as preventative maintenance helping you reduce the chance of more in-depth procedures.
Your dentist will take your oral history and structure of your mouth into account to ensure proper treatments are provided to you.

Occlusion

The way your top teeth come into contact with your lower teeth when certain things like resting and eating occur.

The way your teeth fit together is very important because ill-fitting teeth can cause pain, inhibit proper chewing, cause tooth breakage or even tooth loss. Your dentist can make sure your teeth align correctly and identify any overbite or underbite.

Periodontal Disease

Inflamed tissues resulting in an abnormal space between a tooth and its surrounding tissue. There are varying stages of periodontal disease.

Gingivitis is the first stage and is curable, but as the disease progresses bacteria begins to deteriorate your gums and enter the bone causing bone loss. In severe cases, your gums recede, and you could lose your teeth. Your dentist may suggest medication or surgery, depending on the severity of your individual situation.

Quadrant

The dental arches are divided into four sections and each one of them is called a quadrant. The quadrant begins at the midline where the arch is and extends distally to the last tooth. The upper jaw contains quadrants 1 and 2, the lower jaw, 3 and 4.

When identifying the area in your mouth requiring work, your dentist will refer to the numerical quadrant to ensure the correct tooth is being treated. Your dentist will check all four quadrants in your mouth at every appointment.

Residual Root

The remaining portion of your root after losing over 75% of your tooth’s’ crown. Your dentist might need to re-do your broken crown but will let you know the best treatment for this issue should it occur. If the residual root becomes infected it may need to be removed completely.

Next week, you can read further about dental terms and treatments in our informative blog. Are you having a hard time understanding something? Contact your dentist to get a comprehensive explanation of your individual treatment.

We cater to all types of patients from adults with severe dental problems to children with general dental needs. We can even help seniors with options for a new set of teeth. In addition to our regular daytime hours, Franklin Dental office is conveniently open in the evenings and on the weekend.

Our unique hours are specifically designed with you in mind. We want to make sure you have access to the dentist you want to consult; no matter what your busy schedule holds.

Dr. Gurshant

Medically reviewed by Dr. Gurshant Grewal - a Registered Dentist on May 22nd, 2019

March 27th, 2025
What’s the Difference Between Immediate and Traditional Dentures?

Losing teeth can affect your confidence, speech, and ability to eat comfortably. Fortunately, dentures offer a reliable solution to restore your smile. However, when it comes to choosing between immediate dentures and traditional dentures, many patients wonder which option is best. Understanding the difference between immediate and traditional dentures can help you make an informed […]

Read More
March 27th, 2025
What Are the Different Types of Dentures? Partial, Full, and Implant-Supported Options Explained

Missing teeth greatly impacts your confidence, speech, and ability to enjoy your favorite foods. Thankfully, dentures offer a practical and effective solution to restore your smile and improve oral function. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or require a full-mouth restoration, dentures come in various types, each designed to fit different needs and lifestyles. Let […]

Read More
February 20th, 2025
Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance? Everything You Need to Know

Dental implants are one of the best long-term solutions for replacing missing teeth, offering durability, function, and a natural look. However, many patients ask: Are dental implants covered by insurance? The answer varies depending on your insurance plan, medical necessity, and specific coverage limits. While some policies cover portions of the procedure, others classify implants […]

Read More
February 20th, 2025
How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Everything You Need to Know

Dental implants are an excellent solution for tooth replacement, providing a natural appearance, exceptional durability, and long-lasting functionality. They are designed to blend seamlessly with existing teeth, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and reliable performance over time, making them a top choice for those looking to restore their smile.But many patients ask: How long do dental […]

Read More
VIEW ALL POSTS

Ask Dr. Gill
Learn More With Our FAQ’s

Have a question? We are happy to answer them! Take a look at our frequently asked questions or feel free to give us a call at 
Learn More
Franklin Dental Centre Logo in White

Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

© 2025 Franklin Dental Centre | Website Design by WEB MARKETING FOR DENTISTS.