Are you worried about dull, throbbing toothaches? Do you suspect you have a cavity but don’t know how to express it in English when visiting the dentist? Don’t worry, this article will answer the question of what tooth decay is in English and provide useful information about oral health.
What is Tooth Decay in English?
Tooth decay in English is called “Dental caries” or “Tooth decay”, a common problem affecting the teeth and oral health of millions worldwide. If you are experiencing a toothache, you can use the word “Toothache”. Mastering these vocabulary words will help you communicate effectively with your dentist and find accurate information about tooth decay. Understanding the disease, its causes, symptoms, and treatment methods will help you protect strong tooth enamel, maintain healthy gums, and practice good oral hygiene.
Tooth decay
Essential Dental Terms
When learning about oral health, mastering basic dental terminology is extremely important. This not only helps you communicate effectively with your dentist but also allows you to actively seek information and better understand your oral condition. Here are some important terms:
Caries/Dental decay/Tooth decay (Sâu răng): The destruction of the hard structure of a tooth due to bacteria and acid. This process occurs slowly and may not cause pain in the early stages, being closely related to bacteria and diet.
Toothache (Đau răng): Pain in or around a tooth, often a symptom of tooth decay or other oral problems.
Filling (Trám răng): A method of treating tooth decay by removing the decayed part of the tooth and replacing it with filling material.
Extraction (Nhổ răng): The procedure of removing a tooth from the jawbone.
Oral health (Sức khỏe răng miệng): The overall condition of the mouth, teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. Good oral health plays a crucial role in overall body health.
Dental pain (Đau răng): A sensation of pain in the teeth or surrounding area, which can be caused by various factors such as tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth sensitivity, tooth wear, or problems with wisdom teeth.
Tooth enamel (Men răng): The outermost, hardest layer of the tooth, protecting it from bacteria and harmful agents. Strong tooth enamel helps prevent tooth decay.
Dental hygiene (Vệ sinh răng miệng): The practice of keeping the mouth clean to prevent disease. Good dental hygiene includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
Dentist (Nha sĩ): A professional who provides oral healthcare. Regular dental check-ups with a dentist help detect and treat oral problems early.
Dentistry (Nha khoa): The branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases. Dentistry plays an important role in maintaining oral health and a bright smile.
Bacteria (Vi khuẩn): Microorganisms that can cause tooth decay and other infections in the mouth. Controlling bacteria in the mouth is key to preventing tooth decay.
Sugar (Đường): Food that causes tooth decay. Limiting sugar consumption helps protect tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
Fluoride (Florua): A substance that strengthens tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay. Using fluoride-containing toothpaste is an effective measure for preventing tooth decay.
Pain relief (Giảm đau): Measures that help alleviate tooth pain, including pain medication and other treatment methods.
Vocabulary for Dental Instruments
Compilation of Vocabulary for Dental Instruments
Below is a compilation of vocabulary for dental instruments, divided into functional groups, with concise, easy-to-understand explanations to help you remember them easily.
Examination and Diagnostic Instruments
Vietnamese
English
Explanation
Gương nha khoa
Dental mirror
Used to observe teeth, mouth, and gums
Que thăm khám
Explorer
Checks tooth surfaces, detects tooth decay
Thước đo nha chu
Periodontal probe
Measures periodontal pocket depth, assesses gum health
Máy chụp X-quang
X-ray machine
Takes images of teeth, jaw, detects tooth decay, periodontal disease
Camera nội soi
Intraoral camera
Observes details inside the mouth
Treatment Instruments
Vietnamese
English
Explanation
Máy khoan
Dental drill
Removes decayed tooth tissue, creates cavity for filling
Tay khoan tốc độ cao
High-speed handpiece
Rapid removal of tooth tissue
Tay khoan tốc độ thấp
Low-speed handpiece
Used for delicate procedures
Bộ dụng cụ cạo vôi răng
Scaler
Removes calculus (tartar) and plaque
Dụng cụ trám răng
Filling instruments
Places filling material into the cavity
Dụng cụ nhổ răng
Extraction forceps
Extracts teeth
Máy laser
Dental laser
Used in various dental procedures
Common English Phrases for a Dental Cavity Check-up
Step 1: Describe your symptoms
Start by describing the symptoms you are experiencing. Clearly state the pain sensation, location of the pain, when the pain started, and its severity. Here are some example sentences:
I have a toothache.
My tooth is sensitive to hot and cold.
I have a sharp pain in my upper/lower molar.
The pain started a few days ago/last night.
The pain is constant/comes and goes.
I think I have a cavity.
I have dental pain.
Step 2: Discuss your dental history
Provide your dentist with information about your dental history, including your daily oral hygiene routine. This helps the dentist better understand your oral condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
I brush my teeth twice a day.
I floss regularly.
I have had fillings/extractions before.
I have a history of dental decay.
I am concerned about my oral health.
My last dental check-up was six months ago.
I’m worried about the enamel on my teeth.
Step 3: Ask about treatment options
After the dentist examines and diagnoses, you can inquire about possible treatment methods, costs, and duration. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to better understand your condition.
