Navigating the world of dental technology can feel overwhelming with its rapidly evolving tools and technical jargon. That’s why we’ve created this Dental IT & Technology Glossary – your go-to resource for making sense of the complex terminology shaping modern dentistry. Whether you're exploring practice management software, cybersecurity solutions, or digital imaging advancements, this glossary is designed to simplify the language, increase your confidence, and empower you to make informed decisions that elevate your practice.
A
Access Control: A security method that reduces the risks for businesses and organizations by clearly defining who or what can use specific programs, data, or devices. It’s like having a digital key that only certain people can use to unlock certain doors.
Access Point: A device that boosts your Wi-Fi signal, letting more devices connect to your office network and extending the internet coverage where you need it.
Acteon Imaging Suite: A dental imaging software that helps capture, manage, and edit high-quality images like x-rays, making it easier to diagnose and plan treatments.
Address: A unique "location" in the digital world that helps find and connect to things like email accounts, websites, or physical devices on a network.
Alias: An email nickname that forwards messages to one or more main email accounts. For instance, a dental office might use info@dentalpracticea.com to forward emails to both the dentist and the receptionist.
Anti-Phishing Software: A tool that detects fake or suspicious emails and websites, warning you before you click on something harmful.
Anti-Spam: A program or filter that keeps junk emails out of your inbox, so you only see the messages that matter. (also see Spam Filtering)
Antivirus Software: A program that protects your computer by identifying and removing harmful software, like viruses or malware.
Application: A software tool that helps you get things done. For example, Microsoft Word, Outlook, or industry-specific tools like Open Dental and Dentrix.
Application Programing Interface (API): A set of rules and protocols that allow different software applications to communicate and interact with each other. Think of it as a translator for your computer programs to work together smoothly.
APT (Advanced Persistent Threat): A long-term cyberattack where hackers sneak into a system, stay hidden, and steal sensitive data over time. It’s like having someone hiding in your office, secretly taking valuables without being noticed.
Apteryx Imaging: A flexible, user-friendly dental imaging software that works with many different hardware devices to manage and edit dental images for accurate diagnoses.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technology that lets machines mimic human thinking, like learning, solving problems, or making decisions. Chatbots or scheduling assistants in software are examples of AI at work.
Asset Management: The organized tracking of your IT tools and equipment (like computers and software) to ensure they’re up-to-date and performing well.
Attachment: Files like documents, images, or videos that you can add to emails or messages to share with others.
Authentication: A way to prove it's really you before letting you access systems or data. For instance, entering a password, using a security code sent to your phone, or scanning your fingerprint ensures your information stays safe. (See multi-factor authentication (MFA) and two-factor authentication (2FA))
B
Bandwidth: The amount of data your network can handle at once, like water flowing through a pipe. It's measured in Mbps (megabits) or Gbps (gigabits). The higher the bandwidth, the more "water" (or data) can flow smoothly at the same time.
Bit: The tiniest piece of data in computing. It’s represented as a 0 or a 1.
Bluetooth: A wireless way for devices to talk to each other using short-range radio waves. For example, pairing your smartphone with wireless headphones or your car’s hands-free system uses Bluetooth.
Bookmark: A shortcut to save your favorite web pages so you can quickly find and open them later. Think of it like putting a sticky note on a page in a book you want to revisit.
Bounce: When an email can't be delivered and gets sent back to you. This could happen if the email address is wrong, the recipient’s inbox is full, or there’s a server problem.
Break/Fix: A reactive IT support model where you only call a technician when something breaks and needs fixing. You pay as you go, rather than having ongoing support.
Browser: A program that lets you explore the internet, such as Google Chrome, Safari, or Mozilla Firefox. It's like your window to the online world, helping you visit websites, check emails, or stream videos.
Business Continuity: A plan to keep your practice running smoothly during unexpected disruptions – like a power outage, system crash, or cyberattack. It ensures critical operations (like accessing patient records) continue without major setbacks.
Business Email Compromise (BEC): A type of scam where hackers trick businesses, like dental practices, into transferring money to fake accounts. They often impersonate someone you trust, like a coworker or vendor.
BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): When employees use their personal phones, laptops, or tablets for work tasks. While convenient, these devices need to be kept secure to protect business data.
Byte: A unit of computer storage (8 bits) big enough to hold one character, like a letter or number. For example, 16 GB (gigabyte) of storage is essentially a huge collection of bytes where files, apps, and data are kept.
C
Cable Modem: A device that connects your office to the internet through cable lines. It’s like a translator that turns the internet signal into something your devices can use.
Cache: Storage location where data is temporarily kept. Devices can quickly access these files for future tasks, helping them operate more smoothly and efficiently.
CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing): A high-tech system dentists use to design and create dental restorations, like crowns or bridges, right in the office. It saves time and improves precision.
CAPTCHA: A test you take online to prove you’re a real person, not a robot. It might ask you to select all the traffic lights in a picture or type out wavy letters and numbers.
CareStack: A cloud-based dental practice management system that handles everything from scheduling to billing, streamlining the day-to-day operations of dental offices.
Carestream Dental: Exclusive manufacturer of KODAK Dental Systems, creates imaging tools and practice management software to help dental and oral health professionals take clear x-rays, manage patient records, and improve care.
Case-sensitive: When typing something (like a password or username), it must match exactly with uppercase and lowercase letters. For example, “Password123” is not the same as “password123.”
Chartless: A paperless dental practice where documents are scanned into digital records, and the paper versions are securely shredded.
ClearDent: An all-in-one dental practice management software designed to manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing, enhancing efficiency.
Client Success Manager (CSM): Builds and maintains strong client relationships, ensuring customers achieve their desired outcomes and maximizes the value of provided products and services.
Client Service Representative (CSR): Acts as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing inquires, resolving issues, and providing excellent customer support to enhance satisfaction.
Cloud: A network of remote servers where you can save and access your files and programs over the internet, instead of storing them on your computer.
Cloud Backup: A secure way to copy and store your important files on the cloud, so they’re safe and accessible even if something happens to your local systems.
Cloud Migration: Moving your office’s data and systems from local servers to cloud-based systems for easier access and better scalability.
Cloud Storage: A secure online space to store your files, so you can access them from any internet-connected device. Think of it as a digital filing cabinet you can reach anytime, anywhere.
Compliance Management: A process that helps your office stay up-to-date with regulations and industry standards (such as HIPAA, OSHA, etc.), ensuring you’re always operating in a safe and legal way.
Compression: Shrinking files to make them smaller and easier to share or store. For example, compressing a large image file can make it faster to send through email without losing quality.
Computer: A device that processes and stores information, allowing you to perform tasks like word processing, internet browsing, and running software. (See Desktop Computer and Laptop)
Looking for computers for your dental practice? We recommend reading our article, Which Computers are Best for Your Dental Practice? for expert insights.
Computer Hardware: The physical components of a computer, like the monitor, keyboard, and internal parts such as the processor and memory.
Computer Peripheral: Devices connected to the computer, like printers, scanners, or external drives, that add functionality to your system.
Cookie: A small data file saved on your device by websites you’ve visited. It helps remember your preferences, like keeping you logged in or showing you relevant content.
CPU (Central Processing Unit): The “brain” of your computer that performs calculations and runs programs. It’s what powers actions like opening software or browsing the internet.
Curve Dental: A cloud-based dental practice management software focused on simplifying scheduling, charting, and billing from anywhere with internet access.
Cyber Insurance: Type of insurance that helps cover financial losses and legal expenses associated with data breaches, cyberattacks, and other cyber incidents.
Cyberattack: When someone tries to steal, damage, or disrupt your digital systems or data. This could include hacking, viruses, or phishing scams.
Cybercriminals: Individuals or groups who illegally break into digital systems or networks to steal data, cause damage, or hold information hostage for ransom.
Cybersecurity: The overarching discipline of protecting all aspects of an organization's digital ecosystem from threats like hackers or viruses.
Interested in boosting the cybersecurity of your dental practice? Check out The Ultimate Cybersecurity Guide for Dental Practices, complete with a cybersecurity best practices checklist and sample cybersecurity plan template.
Cybersecurity Analyst: An expert who monitors and defends your practice’s IT systems against cyber threats, ensuring your data and technology stay secure.
Cybersecurity Compliance: Meeting specific rules and standards to ensure your practice has the right protections in place to safeguard patient data and avoid penalties.
D
Dark Web: A hidden part of the internet that is not accessible to the general public. It can only be accessed by special software, and it’s often used to stay anonymous – sometimes for illegal purposes.
Database: An organized collection of information stored on a computer, making it easy to search, manage, and update. For example, your practice management system stores patient details in a database.
Data Backup: Process of saving copies of important files in a secure location so that it can be restored in case it is lost or compromised due to an unforeseen incident such as a natural disaster, cyberattack, or accidental deletion.
Data Breach: When unauthorized individuals access your confidential information—like patient records—without permission. This could lead to data being stolen, leaked, or sold.
Data Center: A facility that houses and manages computer servers. It’s like a secure storage building filled with the systems that store and process your data.
Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Tools and strategies designed to prevent sensitive information—like patient data—from being shared, stolen, or lost.
Data Protection: Strategies to safeguard data, including backups and encrypted systems, ensuring it’s recoverable and secure from breaches.
Data Security: Measures taken to keep sensitive information, like patient records, safe from threats such as hackers or accidental loss.
DDoS Attacks: A type of cyberattack where hackers flood your system or website with too much traffic, causing it to slow down or crash, which disrupts operations.
Dental IT: The specific technology components such as hardware (computers, monitors, servers, etc.), software (imaging, practice management, operating systems, antivirus, etc.), and services used in dental practice to improve patient care, office efficiency, and business continuity.
Dental IT Consulting: A service where experts help dental practices choose and use technology that aligns with their business goals – whether that’s improving office efficiency, securing data, or scaling for growth.
Building, expanding, or upgrading your practice? Connect with an IT consultant today!
Dental IT Services: Technology management and support tailored for dental offices. This includes everything from handling software and networks to advanced security, data backups, and system reviews.
Dental IT Support: A service that ensures your dental practice’s technology—like networks, software, and computers—runs smoothly. It includes proactive monitoring, troubleshooting, and ongoing maintenance.
Dental Technology: Tools and systems like x-rays, imaging software, or digital scanners that enhance patient care and streamline dental practice operations.
DenTech: Software designed to make managing a dental practice more efficient by simplifying daily operations like scheduling and billing.
Dentrix: A popular dental practice management software that helps organize patient records, appointments, billing, and more in one easy-to-use system.
Desktop: The command center of your computer where all your applications and files appear for easy access. The first thing you see after logging into your computer.
Desktop Computer: A computer that stays in one place—usually on your desk—with the main components (monitor, CPU, keyboard) set up as a workstation.
Device: Any piece of technology you use, like laptops, tablets, smartphones, or x-ray machines in your practice.
Device Management: The process of tracking, updating, and securing all the devices used in a dental office, such as computers, tablets, and printers.
DevOps: A tech workflow that combines development (building new software) and operations (maintaining systems) to improve the speed and quality of IT projects.
Dexis: A digital imaging system that provides high-quality dental x-rays along with software for managing and enhancing those images.
DHCP: A system that assigns IP addresses to devices on your network automatically, so they can communicate and access resources without manual setup.
Dialog Box: A small window that pops up on your computer screen to give you information or ask you to confirm an action—like saving a file or closing a program.
Digital Dentistry: Using digital tools and software, like 3D imaging or CAD/CAM systems, to provide faster and more precise dental care.
Digital X-rays: An advanced x-ray method that uses sensors to capture detailed images onto a computer monitor (rather than film), allowing adjustment and review in real-time for improved diagnostic precision.
Disaster Recovery: The plan and processes to quickly restore your systems and access to applications, data, and IT resources after an emergency – like a flood, fire, or cyberattack – so your practice can get back to work with minimal downtime.
DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates a website name (like www.dentalpracticea.com) into a numeric address so computers can find and load it.
Dolphin: A specialized software used in orthodontics to manage patient records, create 3D imaging, and improve treatment planning.
Domain Name: The friendly web address people type to visit a website, like www.pact-one.com, instead of a string of numbers.
Download: The process of saving a file or program from the internet to your device, making it accessible offline.
E
E-Claims: Submitting insurance claims online – efficient for dental offices and insurance companies.
E-Prescriptions: An e-service also known as an electronic prescription, that creates, sends, and files prescriptions electronically.
E-Waste (Electronic Wastes): Pieces of old technology (computers, monitors, network switches, servers, printers, copiers, televisions, DVD players, stereos, phones) equipment that need special recycling or disposal to avoid harming the environment.
Protect your practice from threats while also protecting the environment. Learn how to properly dispose of e-waste in our article, E-Waste: Disposing of Old Computer Equipment.
Eaglesoft: A practice management software from Patterson Technology that helps dentists with scheduling, patient records, imaging, and more in one system.
EasyDental: A dental practice management software offering basic tools for scheduling, billing, and patient record management with a straightforward interface.
EHR (Electronic Health Record): A digital file that stores a patient’s medical history, treatments, and other vital health information for quick and easy access.
Email Security: Techniques and tools to protect your email account from threats like phishing, spam, or hacking attempts.
Encryption: The process of converting private information into a secret code that can only be read with a special key.
End User: Anyone who uses IT systems or devices, like dental staff working with practice management software or computers.
End-of-life (EOL): When a piece of tech, like software or hardware, stops getting updates or support from the company that made it. This makes it less secure and harder to maintain.
Endpoint: Any device that connects to your network, like desktops, laptops, tablets, or printers.
Endpoint Security: Tools and measures to protect connected devices (endpoints) from threats like viruses, malware, and hackers.
Endpoint Detection Response (EDR): Continual monitoring, detection, and response of advanced threats and security incidents on all connected endpoints (desktop computers, laptops, servers, and mobile devices).
EndoVision: Specialized software for managing an endodontic practice, making it easier to track patient records, treatment plans, and billing.
Ethernet: A wired connection that links devices to the internet or a local network for fast and reliable communication.
Ethernet Card: A hardware component installed in a device (like a computer) that allows it to connect to a wired network.
Expansion Card: A small circuit board that you can add to a computer to upgrade its features, like boosting its graphics or adding extra ports.
Extension: The letters that come after a file name (like .pdf or .jpg) that tell you what type of file it is and which program can open it. For example, .pdf is for documents readable by PDF viewers.
F
Field IT Technician: Delivers on-site technical support, installation, and maintenance services, handling hardware and system setups directly at client locations.
Filter: A tool that sorts or blocks certain data. For example, an email filter can block spam, while a search filter narrows down results by specific criteria.
Firewall: The security guard of your network. This device acts as a barrier between two networks, monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic. It identifies and blocks cyber threats while allowing the appropriate traffic through.
Flash Drive: A portable device for storing and transferring files. It’s small, fits in a USB port, and lets you carry important documents, images, and videos between computers.
G
Gateway: A device or system that connects two networks and manages how they communicate. Think of it as a bridge that controls the data flow between them.
Gigabyte: A unit of digital storage equal to about 1 billion bytes. For example, a smartphone with 128 gigabytes of storage can store thousands of photos and apps.
H
Hacktivists: Hackers that hack into businesses and government systems to promote a particular political agenda or to effect social change.
Hardware: The physical parts of technology, like computers, keyboards, monitors, and printers—basically anything you can touch.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive): A storage device inside a computer that holds your files, programs, and operating system. It works like a digital filing cabinet.
Help Desk Support: A service that provides immediate IT assistance to fix technical problems or answer questions about your systems and software. (See Remote IT Support)
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act): A federal law that sets the standards for protecting patient health information (PHI).
HIPAA Compliance: Following regulations to lawfully handle and disclose patient medical information by implementing physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to ensure the privacy and security of data within a dental practice.
HIPAA Compliance Services: Professional services offered by third-party companies to help dental practices meet the requirements of HIPAA by implementing necessary policies, procedures, and technical safeguards such as risk assessments, employee training, and system audits.
HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol): The foundation of how websites work. It’s the set of rules that allows your browser to load pages and link them together over the internet.
Hybrid Cloud: A storage system that mixes on-site servers with cloud services. It offers the benefits of both—local control and the flexibility of internet-based access.
I
iDentalSoft: A cloud-based dental practice management software offering tools for scheduling, billing, and patient tracking that can be accessed from anywhere.
Imaging integration: The ability to store, view, and edit patient images within dental practice management software for easy access and a more streamlined workflow.
Imaging software: Programs used to capture, edit, store, and manage digital images. These are essential for tasks like x-rays and intraoral photography in dental practices.
Incident Response Plan: The documentation of a predetermined set of instructions or procedures to detect, respond to, and limit consequences of a malicious cyberattack against an organization’s information system(s).
Infrastructure: The foundational components (hardware, software, networks, operating systems, and data storage) of IT.
Insiders: A company’s current or former employees, contractors, or business associates that steal sensitive documents or try to disrupt operations to right a wrong they believe a company has done to them.
Internet of Things (IoT): The network of physical objects, or "things," embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to collect and exchange data over the internet. Everyday devices, like smart thermostats, security cameras, robot vacuums, etc.
Interoperability: The ability of different IT systems and software applications to communicate, exchange data, and use the information exchanged.
Intraoral camera: A small, handheld camera used to view and capture detailed images of oral conditions inside the mouth. Various brands include MouthWatch, Digital Doc IRIS, DEXIS DEXcam, and ProDENT.
IP Address: The unique digital address assigned to each device connected to the internet, acting like its “home address” for online communication.
ISP (Internet Service Provider): A company that provides consumers and businesses access (dial-up, DSL, or broadband connection) to the Internet. Cox, CenturyLink, and Comcast are a few ISPs.
IT (Information Technology): A wide range of technologies and systems (hardware, software, networks, other electronic devices) used to store, retrieve, process, and share data.
IT & Technology Performance Analysis: A non-intrusive, comprehensive audit your IT systems to ensure they’re secure, efficient, and meeting the needs of your dental practice.
Discover how your current technology is performing and identify opportunities for improvement with Pact-One's Complimentary IT & Technology Performance Analysis - claim yours today!
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Kavo Imaging: Imaging software from KaVo designed to capture and manage detailed dental images for accurate diagnosis and planning.
Kilobyte (KB): A unit of digital data storage smaller than a megabyte, often used to measure simple files like text documents.
L
LAN (Local Area Network): A network that connects computers and devices within a specific area, like your dental office, so they can share resources and data.
Laptop: A portable computer that's small and light enough to carry around. Unlike a desktop, it has a built-in screen, keyboard, and battery, so you can use it anywhere—whether you’re at the office, at home, or on the go.
Laser printer: A printer that uses lasers to create high-quality documents and images—ideal for professional office use.
Learning Management System (LMS): A platform that organizes and delivers training materials online, such as employee onboarding programs or compliance courses.
Link: A clickable piece of text or an image that takes you to another location on the web or a file when clicked.
M
MAC Address (Media Access Control Address): The unique ID assigned to devices like computers or printers, helping them connect and communicate within a network.
Machine Learning: A type of technology where computers learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed, often used for predictive analytics or automation.
Malware: Any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer system, including viruses, worms, and Trojan horses.
Managed Detection and Response (MDR): A Security-as-a-Service offering that provides organizations with ongoing monitoring for indicators of threats, detection of developing threats, and immediate response to isolate and stop threats in real-time.
Managed network security: Outsourced monitoring, management, and maintenance of an organization's network security infrastructure to a third-party service provider.
Managed Service Provider (MSP): A company that remotely manages a client's IT infrastructure, systems, and operations. MSPs provide proactive, ongoing support and maintenance to ensure businesses have reliable and secure IT environments without requiring an in-house IT team.
Medit Link: Software designed to work with Medit’s dental scanning devices, organizing scans and connecting workflows seamlessly in digital dentistry.
Megabyte (MB): A unit of digital data storage equal to 1,000 kilobytes, commonly used to measure file sizes like photos or documents.
Microsoft 365: A subscription-based collection of productivity applications, like Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams with cloud storage for easy access from any device.
Multifactor Authentication (MFA): A security process that requires multiple forms of verification—like a password plus a texted code—to ensure only authorized users can access systems or data.
N
Nameserver: A specialized server that translates easy-to-remember website names (like www.example.com) into numerical IP addresses so that your computer can find and load the website.
NAT (Network Address Translation): A process that allows multiple devices on a local network to share a single public IP address, making the network more secure and efficient.
Network: A system of connected devices (like computers and printers) that communicate and share resources, such as files, internet, and software, within an office or across the globe.
Network Adapter: A device (often built into a computer) that allows it to connect to a network through a wired or wireless connection.
Network Design: The planning and organizing of a network’s structure, including hardware, software, and connections, tailored for reliability, speed, and security.
Network Hub: A simple device that connects multiple computers or devices in a network. It helps them share data, though it’s considered less advanced than switches or routers.
Network Monitoring: The practice of keeping an eye on your IT network to ensure it’s running smoothly, checking for issues like outages or unusual activity.
Network Security: Strategies and tools used to safeguard your network from unauthorized access, breaches, or cyberattacks. This includes firewalls, antivirus programs, and encryption.
Network Switch: A device that connects multiple devices in a network and efficiently directs the data to where it needs to go, ensuring faster and more secure communication.
NIST (National Institute of Standards of Technology): A U.S. agency that creates security guidelines and best practices to help organizations protect their data and systems from cyber threats.
NIST Compliance: Following NIST’s recommended cybersecurity practices to ensure your dental practice meets high security standards and protects sensitive patient information.
O
Office 365: Another name for Microsoft 365, offering powerful tools like email, word processing, and online collaboration features in one package. (See Microsoft 365)
OMS Vision: Practice management software built for oral and maxillofacial surgeons, helping manage patient records, scheduling, and financials.
On-Site: Work or services performed at your physical office location, such as hardware installation or IT project.
Online: Being connected to the internet, allowing access to websites, cloud storage, and online tools.
Open Dental: A comprehensive, highly customizable dental practice management software for practices of any size. Open Dental is interoperable with other software (100s of bridges to other programs, 20+ clearinghouses, and 3rd party services and products).
Operating System: The software that runs and manages a computer or mobile device. It serves as the main interface between the user and the hardware, allowing them to interact with the computer and use applications.
Ortho2: A software suite designed for orthodontists, offering tools for managing patient records, imaging, financials, and communication—all in one streamlined system.
P
Paperless: A dental practice that operates without paper records by using digital systems for patient files, billing, and scheduling.
Password Manager: A secure tool that stores and organizes your passwords, so you don’t have to remember them all. It can also create strong passwords to keep your accounts safe.
Patch: An update for software that fixes bugs or security vulnerabilities. Think of it like a quick repair job to keep your system running smoothly and securely.
PC (Personal Computer): A computer designed for individual use, ideal for personal or office tasks like email, scheduling, and managing files.
PerioVision: A practice management software tailored to periodontists, combining patient management with clinical tools to improve workflows.
Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Private information, like your name, date of birth, Social Security number, or health records, that could identify you if shared.
Phishing: A fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications.
Phishing Protection: Security measures your dental practice takes to mitigate phishing attacks on employees and systems. Anti-phishing software and security awareness training are both types of phishing protections.
Planet DDS (Denticon): A cloud-based dental practice management platform offering tools for scheduling, billing, and clinical charting, designed for large-scale or multi-location practices.
Port: A connection point for a device, either physical (like a USB port) for plugging in hardware or virtual, which allows data to flow in and out of programs or networks.
Practice Management Software: A program that helps dental offices handle daily tasks like scheduling appointments, managing patient records, billing, and more—all in one place.
On the hunt for practice management software?Get insights on the top seven (7) practice management software in our article, Top Practice Management Software for Dental Practices.
Practice Software Integration: Connecting different software programs used in a dental office so they work together seamlessly, improving workflows and patient care.
Project Development: Planning and executing IT projects for a dental practice, like setting up new systems or migrating data to the cloud.
R
RAM (Random Access Memory): Short-term memory that your computer uses to work on tasks. The more RAM you have, the faster your system can run multiple programs at once.
Ransomware: A form of malware that encrypts your data so attackers can demand a payment (ransom) in exchange for a decryption key that gives you access to your data.
Recovery Point Objective (RPO): The maximum age of files that must be recovered from backup storage for normal operations to resume after a disaster strikes.
Recovery Time Objective (RTO): The targeted time you set to restore your systems after an outage or disaster, ensuring business continuity.
Remote Desktop: A feature that lets you access and control a computer from another location via the internet as if you were sitting in front of it.
Remote IT Technician: Provides IT support and troubleshooting services from a remote location, addressing software, network, and system issues without requiring on-site presence.
Remote IT Support: IT assistance provided from a distance, using technology to troubleshoot and resolve issues without needing an on-site visit.
Remote Login: Accessing a computer or network from a different location using a secure connection.
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM): Tools that IT teams use to monitor your systems and solve problems remotely before they affect your operations.
Risk Assessment: The process of identifying potential tech vulnerabilities and evaluating how they might impact your business.
Risk management: Steps taken to minimize risks, like implementing security measures or backup systems to ensure your IT is protected.
ROMEXIS: Advanced dental imaging software that integrates with 3D imaging devices to provide precise images for clinical use and treatment planning.
Router: A device that connects your office to the internet and directs information between your devices and networks.
S
SaaS (Software as a Service): Software that runs online instead of needing to be installed on your computer, like email services or cloud-based apps.
Safe Mode: A diagnostic mode for computers that loads only essential programs to help fix problems.
Screen Reader: A tool that reads text on a screen aloud, helping visually impaired users use computers.
Script Kiddies: Amateur hackers that use scripts or other automated tools written by others to deploy malware.
Scroll Bar: The vertical or horizontal bar in a window that lets you move through content that doesn’t fit on your screen all at once.
Search Engine: A program, like Google, that helps you find information on the internet by typing in keywords.
Secure Remote Access: A blend of company-specific security protocols and IT solutions designed to facilitate easy remote access to the tools and platforms employees need – while keeping data secure and protected.
Secure Server: A server with enhanced safety measures to encrypt and protect the data it processes or stores.
Server: A powerful computer designed to store, process, and manage data for multiple users or devices in a network.
Service Level Agreement (SLA): Contract that defines the scope, quality, and responsibilities of service provided.
Sidexis: A dental imaging software that combines x-rays and digital images for a comprehensive view of patients’ oral health.
SOC (Security Operations Center): A team of professional security analysts performing round-the-clock monitoring of an organization’s network to prevent, detect, investigate, and respond to cyber threats.
SOTA Imaging: A dental imaging software designed to handle everything from capturing images to storing and enhancing them for better diagnosis.
Spam Filtering: Software that detects and blocks unsolicited, unwanted or harmful emails from reaching a user’s inbox.
Spoofing: When cybercriminals imitate people, companies, and other resources across various platforms to trick people into giving up information in order to gain access to something valuable.
State-Sponsored Hackers: Hackers backed by governments to promote interests within their own country or abroad – taking down websites that criticize the state, swaying public opinion, cyber-terrorism, and leaking top-secret information.
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Tab32: A cloud-based dental practice management solution that simplifies day-to-day operations like scheduling, billing, and patient tracking.
Technical Director: Oversees the technical operations and strategy of team or organization, ensuring systems, processes, and technologies align with business objectives.
TIFF (Tag Image File Format): A file format used for high-quality images, like logos or x-rays in dental offices.
Token: A digital code or device used for authentication to securely access systems or data.
Toolbar: A strip of icons or buttons in a program that provides quick access to common tools or commands.
Trojan Horse: Malicious software disguised as something harmless to trick users into installing it on their systems.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): A security process that requires two different forms of identification to access accounts, enhancing security beyond just a password.
U
Upload: Sending files from your computer to another system, like attaching a document to an email.
USB (Universal Serial Bus): A common connector for devices like keyboards, flash drives, or printers to transfer data or power.
Username: The unique name you use to log in to an account or system, paired with your password for security.
URL (Uniform Resource Locator): The web address you type into a browser to visit a website, like www.example.com.
V
Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO): Acts as a strategic IT advisor to businesses, helping them align their technology strategy with business goals from improving technology infrastructure to planning digital transformation.
Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO): Provides strategic cybersecurity leadership to organization, ensuring protection against cyber threats and compliance with regulations.
Virtualization: The creation of virtual versions of hardware or software, allowing multiple systems to run on a single physical machine.
Virus Protection: Software or tools that detect and remove harmful viruses from your systems.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): A cost-effective, flexible, and feature-rich communication platform that can adapt to evolving needs of modern business.
VPN (Virtual Private Network): A multilayered security solution allowing users to connect to a private network (such as a practice manager remotely connecting to a dental office) from anywhere.
Vulnerability Scans: A process of checking your IT environment for weaknesses that could be exploited by cyber threats and ensuring they’re addressed.
W
WAN (Wide Area Network): A network that connects computers and devices over large distances, like linking multiple office locations.
WAP (Wireless Application Protocol): A standard for accessing the internet on mobile devices.
Wi-Fi: A wireless network that provides internet access without the need for cables.
WinOMS: Dental practice management software specifically designed for oral surgeons, providing tools for scheduling, charting, and billing.
Windows: A popular operating system developed by Microsoft, used on many PCs worldwide.
Z
Zero-Day Attack: A cyberattack that takes advantage of a software flaw before developers can fix it.
Zero Trust: Requires anyone accessing your network and resources to be authenticated, authorized, and continuously validated before being granted access to patient data.
Zip: A file format that compresses large files into smaller sizes, making them easier to share or store.
Conclusion
Our Dental IT and Technology Glossary is more than just a list of definitions – it’s a resource designed to grow with you as dental technology continues to evolve. Whether you’re navigating new software, security challenges, or innovations in patient care, this glossary is here to provide clarity and confidence every step of the way.
We encourage you to revisit it whenever you need a trusted reference and to view it as a steppingstone to making technology a true partner in the success of your practice. By staying informed, you open the door to smarter decisions and greater opportunities for growth and excellence in delivering patient care.
Worry Less. Smile More with Dental IT that Elevates Your Practice.
Quality patient care – it's ultimately why you became a dental professional. But, some business operations can get in the way (such as pesky computer issues or lack of IT support). That’s where Pact-One Solutions can help! Our passion lies in supplying reliable, responsive dental IT support and security that practices can count on.
Whether you’re looking for dental IT services for your startup or searching for more responsive dental IT support – our team of dental IT specialists have you covered. With team members throughout the United States, we offer nationwide support to dental practices of all sizes. Our wide range of dental IT services ensure your data is secure, accessible, and protected.
Don't let technology challenges hinder your ability to deliver exceptional dental care. Contact us at info@pact-one.com or 866-722-8663 to join dental practices of all specialties, sizes, and business phases thriving with the support of a dedicated dental IT team.
