Category: D

The process of cleaning an open wound by removal of foreign material and dead tissue, so that healing may occur without hindrance.  

Comparatively good vision in poor light but poor vision in good illumination. The condition is usually congenital and associated with poor ‘visual acuity and defective color vision. Acquired cases occur when the cones (light-sensitive cells) at the back of the retina are selectively destroyed by disease. A condition in which the patient sees better in…

A laxative administered by mouth; it sometimes colors the urine pink or red.  

An operation to relieve blockage of the nasolacrimal duct (which drains tears into the nose), in which a communication is made between the lacrimal sac and the nose by removing the intervening bone.  

A diagnostic dental tool that involves electromagnetic radiation to create photographic images of the teeth, mouth, jaw, and related structures. X rays pass through softer tissues, such as the skin of the cheek and the gums, and are absorbed by denser structures, such as teeth and bone. When dental X rays are taken as part…

Thin shells of ceramic material, usually porcelain, that are bonded to the front of teeth. Dental veneers correct surface irregularities or discoloration, brighten the color of teeth, and generally improve the appearance of teeth. The application of dental veneers is a technique offered by cosmetic dentistry. Veneers may be used to repair chipped teeth or…

Stained, darkened, or yellowed teeth. The color of teeth may vary widely from one person to another. Discolored teeth may be due to hereditary factors. Yellowing of the teeth typically occurs with aging. Stains may be the result of habits that deposit color on the surface enamel of the teeth, such as smoking and tobacco…

The use of certain chemicals and substances to enhance athletic performance and gain a competitive advantage; commonly referred to as doping and often illegal. Athletes whose use of these substances is detected, usually by blood or urine testing, are disqualified from competition and may face lengthy suspensions from their sports or loss of amateur or…

Reinforcement for loose teeth, or the joining together of adjacent teeth to support a wide dental bridge. Dental splinting may be a temporary measure to strengthen teeth and maintain their position during healing or following orthodontic treatment. Splinting may also be a permanent technique for reinforcing teeth that are supporting partial dentures. The purpose of…

A plastic resin applied to the pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of the premolars (the teeth in front of the molars) and molars at the back of the jaw. Dental sealants bond to the enamel on the surface of the teeth and act as a physical barrier to protect the teeth from the…