SmileScout logoSmileScout

Glossary

The words dentists use — in the words patients need.

Short definitions. No Latin unless it earns its keep.

Hardened plaque, also called tartar. Once plaque mineralises it cannot be brushed off — a dentist or hygienist has to scale it away.

Have a dental question?

Search a symptom, browse a topic, or read a plain-English answer written by a dentist.

Written by a dentist · Evidence-based · Not a substitute for an exam