Dental glossary — terms beginning with X

X-ray, the usual English term for Röntgen radiation.

Xanthodontia, a strong yellow-brown discolouration of the natural crowns of the teeth with various causes. Caffeine, tea and nicotine accelerate the discolouration. Xanthodontia can also be triggered by side effects of tetracycline therapy in an expectant mother, or by metabolic disorders during mineralisation. Cosmetically troublesome xanthodontia can be treated by bleaching, for example.

Xerostomia, a dry mouth accompanied by a chronic feeling of thirst. Caries at the neck of the tooth is often connected with xerostomia. Causes can include allergies, salivary gland disorders, tumours and also medicines, particularly psychotropic drugs.