ABSCESS - a local infection. A Severe decay, periodontal disease, or trauma are causative factors. It is characterized by swelling and pain. If an abscess ruptures, it will be accompanied by sudden relief from pain due to a reduction in ssure. A foul taste may also be noticed. ABUTMENT - a term used to denote the teeth on either side of a missing tooth. ACRYLIC RESIN - the plastic widely used in dentistry to make dentures. ACTIVE ERUPTION - the emergence of the tooth from its position in the jaw.