You might have heard your dentist call out various numbers to their assistant while examining your teeth or gums. Have you ever wondered what are these numbers and what are they used for? In addition to numbers, dentists often use difficult terms that are not understandable by laymen. So, if you are interested in knowing what those numbers the dentist calls out really mean, then you should read this blog till the end because it contains all the information you need about the numbers used by dentists during examination and treatment.
How Teeth Are Numbered In Your Mouth?
When examining teeth and recording treatment procedures, dentists need to use consistent naming and numbering systems to avoid confusion. Therefore, there are three main types of numbering systems for teeth used by dentists worldwide: The FDI, universal, and the Palmer numbering system.
The FDI system divides the mouth into four quadrants. In each quadrant, the central incisor tooth has number 1 and the wisdom tooth is numbered 8. So, a central incisor in the first quadrant (upper right) will be numbered 11, while a wisdom tooth in the third quadrant (lower left) will be numbered 38. The Palmer system is also similar to the FDI system. On the other hand, the Universal numbering system has an individual number for each tooth. Therefore, for permanent teeth, it starts from 1 and ends at 32.
What Do Dentists Say When Checking Teeth?
Dentists often call out numbers and various terms while examining a patient’s teeth. These numbers typically refer to the patient’s tooth number or oral hygiene status. For example, if they say #37, it would mean the lower left 2 molar teeth. Dentists also use a numbered grading system to record the health of your gums. They use a special probe which measures the depth of periodontal pockets. So, the higher the depth of the probe, the deeper the pocket and the more advanced the gum disease is.
Another set of numbers used by dentists is the length of the endodontic files used by dentists during root canal treatment. They often record these numbers in their notes for the next treatment step or easy understanding by fellow dentists.
What Are The Numbers Dentists Write In Their Notes After A Dental Exam?
During a clinical examination, dentists often note down the (position) of your teeth which are decayed, missing, or fractured. This helps them prepare a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. This also helps fellow dentists easily understand the treatment procedures they have performed and what needs to be done next.
What Do Numbers Tell You About Your Gum Health?
As mentioned earlier, your dentist will record the health status of your gums using a grading system. The greater the depth of the gum pocket, the deeper the penetration of the dental probe and the more advanced your gum disease. Based on this grading system, they will decide whether to consider a surgical or non-surgical treatment. If the damage is extensive, they may consider scaling and root planning along with antibiotic therapy.
What Is The Gum Score Chart And What Does It Mean?
Dentists around the world use a universal system to grade the gum health of their patients. For this purpose, they use a gum health chart that records each tooth’s periodontal status. It helps your dentist determine which type of treatment – surgical, non-surgical, or no treatment (for healthy gums) – should be considered for your gums. This chart also helps them keep track of your treatment progress and improvement in gum disease.
Dental Terminology: What Is Your Dentist Really Saying?
Dentists often use jargon that is not understandable by their patients or laymen. This can sometimes be frightening for the patients as they are not aware of what their dentist is saying. However, there is no need to worry as your dentist will explain everything to you in simple terms once they have completed your examination. Moreover, they will proceed with treatment unless you have understood the treatment procedure and have consented to it.
In most cases, the terminology used by dentists refers to the tooth number or a specific condition related to your teeth and gums. Sometimes, they also use scientific terms for various dental procedures such as peri-apical abscess, or an endo-perio lesion. All these terms are used by dental professionals to record their findings or communicate with their assistant or dental hygienist.
Why Do Dentists Blow Air Onto Their Patients’ Teeth?
Have you ever wondered why dentists blow air onto their patient’s teeth? This is because it is one of the most effective methods to check whether a tooth is sensitive to hot or cold stimuli. Dentists blow cold air on different teeth to identify the problematic one. They may also look at the affected tooth’s x-ray to assess the extent of the damage. In case the damage is minimal, your dentist may recommend oral hygiene measures (brush and floss) to treat the sensitivity. If the tooth has become decayed, then restoring the affected tooth with a suitable filling material would be a better option.
If you are looking for a dentist in Ballsbridge, Dublin, who will thoroughly examine your teeth, explain everything in simple terms, and provide top-notch dental treatment, then you should go to Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge. We offer the best dental services to our patients in a comfortable environment and at affordable rates. Request a free consultation with us today and let us give you a reason to smile!
