Plaque
Plaque is a sticky bacterial biofilm on teeth that causes cavities and gum disease. Learn how it forms, why it matters, and how to remove it effectively.
Category: Dental Conditions
Dental conditions are the diagnoses and pathologies that drive treatment planning. This section of the Rebrief Dental Glossary covers the conditions clinicians identify, document, and manage — from common caries and bruxism to less-frequent presentations like burning mouth syndrome, ankyloglossia, and aphthous stomatitis. We define the wear-and-mechanical lesions (abfraction, abrasion, attrition), the infectious and inflammatory conditions (apical periodontitis, candidiasis, periodontitis), and the structural changes that show up on radiographs (bone resorption, attachment loss, external resorption). Each entry pairs a working clinical definition with diagnostic context: how the condition typically presents, what differentiates it from look-alike conditions, and where to find the related treatment in the procedures section of the glossary. Many entries cross-link to the anatomy entries — so you can read about caries and immediately jump to the enamel and dentin structures it affects, or read about periodontitis and trace it back to the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The goal: a quick reference for chairside terminology, charting, and patient education that respects how dentistry actually works. Browse alphabetically below or search across the full Rebrief Dental Glossary for anatomy, procedures, and equipment terms that connect to each condition.
Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis is a painful gum inflammation around partially erupted wisdom teeth. Learn its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Osteomyelitis of the Jaw
Osteomyelitis of the jaw is a bacterial bone infection affecting the mandible or maxilla. Explore causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Orthodontic Relapse
Orthodontic relapse occurs when teeth shift back after braces or aligners are removed. Learn the causes, risk factors, and how retainers prevent it.
Oral Papilloma
Oral papilloma is a benign HPV-related growth on oral tissues. Learn causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for clinicians and patients.
Gingival Recession
Gingival recession exposes root surfaces below the cementoenamel junction, increasing sensitivity and caries risk. Learn causes, types, and treatment.
Oral Ulcers
Oral ulcers are painful mouth sores affecting the gingiva, tongue, and cheeks. Learn about causes, types, and when prompt dental evaluation matters.
Oral Mucositis
Oral mucositis causes painful inflammation and ulceration of the mouth’s lining, most often from cancer therapy. Learn its causes, symptoms, and how it’s managed.
Occlusal Interference
Occlusal interference disrupts jaw movement and stresses teeth, the periodontal ligament, and the TMJ. Learn types, signs, and how it’s treated.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects the lips, tongue, floor of the mouth, and oral tissues. Learn the risk factors, warning signs, and why early dental screening saves lives.