Radiographs Intra and extra oral films used for diagnostic purposes to examine the bone surrounding the teeth and also tooth structure. Strict guidelines dictate the quantity and methods of taking radiographs to reduce exposure to radiation. Caries undetectable by  visual examination (under a filling or interproximally) may be identified.

Retainer An orthodontic appliance used to maintain the position of the teeth after orthodontic extractions or treatment.

Root Canal Treatment A procedure used to save a tooth which has been traumatized or has had an apical abscess. Sometimes it is elected to carry out a root treatment on a vital (alive) tooth in order that a post may be placed for example, but in most cases the pulp is necrotic (dead). The pulp is removed, and the root canals are cleaned and widened with small file instruments. A gutta-percha filling is then placed to seal the canals. Rubber dam is used whenever possible.

Rubber dam A square sheet of rubber which is held over the mouth with a frame. A hole in the rubber allows isolation of a tooth or teeth from the rest of the mouth. This protects the airway from small instruments, irrigants etc during root canal treatment. It also reduces saliva contamination which is important for root canal treatment and procedures involving acid etch such as for composite fillings.