Dental Terminology & Definitions

Dental Terminology & Definitions

Dental Terminology & Definitions
  • General dentists: are the primary dental care providers for patients of all ages, this dentist diagnoses, treat and manages for your overall oral health care need.
  • Dentistry: also known as oral medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study of prevention, and treatment of diseases and malformations of the teeth, gums, and oral cavity, and the removal, correction, and replacement of decayed, damaged, or lost parts, including such operations as the filling and crowning of teeth, the straightening of teeth, and the construction of artificial dentures.
  • DDS: (Doctor of Dental Surgery).
  • DMD: (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine) are the same degrees. 
  • Dental Assistant: is a dental hygienist who works closely with and under the supervision of a dentist. They work with patients by performing tasks before and after the dentist's meeting with the patient, as well as assisting the dentist during some dental procedures.
  • Oral Cavity: The human oral cavity refers to the mouth, all of its parts including the lips, the lining inside the cheeks and tongue, the upper and lower gums, teeth, and the roof and floor of the mouth under the tongue, the bony roof of the mouth, and the small area. The oral cavity also plays an important role in respiration, and functions as the entrance to the digestive system as well.
  • Oral diseases: are diseases that affect the mouth, oral diseases negatively impact the mouth as well as the rest of the body. Oral diseases can affect every aspect of life, including personal relationships, self-confidence, as well as school and work attendance and performance.here is a range of oral diseases that pose a major public health threat worldwide If left untreated.
  • Gum disease: The bacteria passes through the saliva into the gums, causing gum disease. Gum disease usually develops if the teeth and gums are not healthy or suffer from a specific pathological problem. If you suffer from a bad mouth and tend to kiss a person who has gum infections, you are exposing yourselves to the risk of infection.
  • Bad breath: Sterile mouthwash kills bacteria that cause bad breath and keeps gums healthy. The cause of bad breath may be other causes, such as eating garlic, "aromatic" foods, poor oral hygiene, or oral diseases.
  • Oral hygiene: is a group of daily practices that lead to maintaining oral hygiene to avoid its problems and diseases, especially gingivitis, tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
  • Dental plaque: is a soft deposit that forms a thin film and sticks on the surface of teeth and can be seen at the gum boundaries using discs disclosure. The bacteria in the plaque convert carbohydrates (such as sugar) into acid that removes tooth mineralization and ultimately causes necrosis or caries.
  • Dental floss: it removes plaque and food residues suspended between teeth, It is recommended to use the dental floss between the teeth at least once a day, preferably before using the brush so that toothpaste fluoride can enter the teeth to help restore calcification, and prevent gingival recession and gum disease.
  • Electric toothbrush: An electric toothbrush helps to keep the gums and teeth healthy, and some consider it an easier and better way than a manual brush, as it just suffices to pass it over the surface of the tooth and it performs the cleaning process.
  • Dental anatomy: is defined here as, the study of human tooth structures and the development, appearance, and classification of teeth fall within its purview the study of dental anatomy, physiology, and occlusion provides one of the basic components of the skills needed to practice all phases of dentistry.
  • Nomenclature: The first step in understanding dental anatomy is to learn the nomenclature, or the system of names, used to describe the teeth.
  • NOTATION SYSTEM: These are the systems designated to identify the type of each tooth and its location in each quadrant of the dental arches. Some of these systems are more commonly used in certain countries than others.
  • ZSIGMONDY/Palmer Notation System: This system is used in Middle East: it is based on denominating the teeth in each quadrant of the dental arches.
  • FDI (federation dentaire internationale) or two-digit system: Each tooth is identified by a unique two-digit combination. The first digit identifies the quadrant of the jaw and the second digit identifies the tooth within the quadrant. 
  • UNIVERSAL SYSTEM OF TOOTH NUMBERING / ADA TOOTH NUMBERING SYSTEM: in the deciduous, consecutive uppercase letters (A-T) are assigned to identify the teeth Letter A is assigned to the second molar of the patient's right side of the upper arch, upper left molar is K and following that arch to the terminus of the lower jaw, the lower right primary second molar is T. In the permanent, teeth are numbered 1-32 starting with the upper right third molar clockwise terminating at the lower right third molar, the permanent teeth are number 1 through 32 starting at the end of the right maxillary quadrant. The deciduous teeth are designated with the capital letters A through T.
  • Bad breath: is an unpleasant smell coming from the mouth during breathing, regardless of whether or not the mouth is its original source.The intensity of the smell varies during the day because of fasting or by foods a person eats or because of obesity, smoking and drinking alcohol or, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, dental problems, medications or other factors.
  • "Morning breath": Bad breath in the morning is very common. Saliva production nearly stops during sleep, allowing odor-causing bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.
  • Dry mouth: Saliva helps moisten and cleanse the mouth, and when the body does not produce enough saliva, bad breath may result, dry mouth may be caused by salivary gland problems, connective tissue disorders.
  • Dietary factors: such as garlic, onion spicy foods, exotic spices (such as curry), some cheeses, fish, coffee can leave a lingering smell. Most of the time the odor is short-lived.
  • Mouth infections: Cavities, gum disease, or impacted teeth may cause bad breath.
  • Medications: Triamterene (Dyrenium) and paraldehyde, antihistamines to treat allergies and diuretics, can cause dry mouth which can cause bad breath.
  • Gum disease: Ignoring the cleaning of the tongue causes some problems that are harmful to the health of the gums, as the bacterial infection present in the tongue also affects the gums, which leads to redness of the gums, swelling and bleeding at times.
  • Dental loss: This may seem strange, but it is real. When the tongue is not clean, the chances of infection in the gums increase, and this may result in some other problems such as the loss of teeth.
  • Bleeding gums: are the most common symptom of gum disease, but it can also point to other health problems. If you have gingivitis, your gums may be irritated, red, and swollen, they may bleed when you brush your teeth. It can also be a sign of a serious medical condition.
  • Gingivitis: Gingivitis occurs when the plaque stays on the gum lines for a long time and produces toxins that irritate the gums. If plaque is not removed, it can freeze in calcification (calculus), which increases bleeding.
  • Plaque: The buildup of plaque at the gum line. This will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jaw bone disease.
  • Periodontitis: If you don't take care of your gingivitis, it may develop, and lead to gingivitis, or periodontitis, which is a long-term gum condition that damages the tissue and bone that support your teeth and gums. Periodontitis can cause your teeth to loosen or fall out. your gums may become inflamed and infected and pull away from the roots of your teeth.
  • Lack of Vitamin C: This vitamin helps your tissue grow and repair. It heals wounds and strengthens your bones and teeth.
  • Scurvy: It's rare, but a severe shortage of vitamin C in your body can lead to scurvy, a disease related to poor nutrition. It can make you weak, cause anemia, and lead to bleeding under your skin.
  • Lack of Vitamin K: This vitamin helps your blood clot properly. It's also good for your bones. If you don't get enough through your diet or your body doesn't absorb it well, it can cause bleeding problems.
  • lack of clotting cells (platelets): Also known as Thrombocytopenia, it happens if your gums bleed when you brush your teeth and it doesn't stop on its own, If you have this condition, your body may not have enough platelets to form a blood clot. That can lead to too much bleeding in different parts of your body, including your gums.
  • Leukemia: Leukemia, a type of cancer.Your blood platelets help your body stop bleeding. If you have leukemia, your platelet count is low. That makes it harder for you to stop bleeding in different parts of your body, including your gums.
  • Diabetes: Bleeding or swollen gums can be a warning sign of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. When you have this disease, your mouth isn't as powerful at fighting germs, so you're more likely to get infections like gum disease. High blood sugar levels that go along with diabetes make it harder for your body to heal, which can make gum disease worse.
  • Incisors: are the sharp teeth at the front of the mouth that biting and cutting food into smaller during mastication due to their triangular proximal and flat with a thin edge. They are also called anterior teeth.
  • Canines: are the sharp, pointed teeth that sit next to the incisors and look like fangs. Dentists also call them cuspids or eyeteeth. Canines are the longest of all the teeth, and people use them to tear food.
  • Premolars: premolars, or bicuspids, are found only in the permanent teeth, they are bigger than the incisors and canines. They have many ridges and to assist in grinding food during mastication because of their broad occlusal surface and prominent cusps. They also assist the canines in piercing, tearing and holding food with their cusps.
  • Molars: Molars are the biggest of all the teeth. they have a wide occlusal surface, with ridges that allow them to chew food and grind it up.
  • THE CROWN AND ROOT: The crown of each tooth projects into the mouth. The root of each tooth descends below the gum line, into the jaw. The crown is covered with enamel, and the root portion is covered with cementum. The crown and root join at the cementoenamel junction (CEJ). This junction, also called the cervical line.
  • Neck: Neck also called the dental cervix, sits between the crown and root, It forms the line where the cementum meets the enamel.
  • Enamel: The hardest, white outer part of the tooth. Enamel is mostly made of calcium phosphate, a rock-hard mineral.
  • Cementum: A layer of connective tissue that binds the roots of the teeth firmly to the gums and jawbone.
  • Dentin: Dentin is the main bulk of the tooth,it is a hard tissue that contains microscopic tubes. It extends from the crown down through the neck and root, when the enamel is damaged, heat or cold can enter the tooth through these paths and cause sensitivity or pain.
  • Pulp: The pulp or the center of the tooth is the innermost portion of the tooth. It contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue—is a soft, or non-calcified, tissue.
  • Pulp cavity: The pulp cavity, sometimes called the pulp chamber, is the space inside the crown that contains the pulp.
  • Cervical line: the Cervical line is the junction between enamel and cementum.
  • Braces: are the “appliances” orthodontists most commonly use to guide your teeth into their proper positions.
  • Gums: Gums, also called gingiva, are the fleshy, pink connective tissue that’s attached to the neck of the tooth and the cementum.
  • Root: the root portion is being covered by cementum.
  • Root Canal: The root canal is a passageway that contains pulp 
  • Jaw bone: The jaw bone, also called the alveolar bone, is the bone that contains the tooth sockets and surrounds the teeth’s roots; it holds the teeth in place.
  • Periodontal ligament: Tissue that helps hold the teeth tightly against the jaw.
  • Nerves and blood vessels: Blood vessels supply the periodontal ligament with nutrients, while nerves help control the amount of force used when you chew.
  • Cavities (caries): are small black marks caused by a buildup of bacteria on the surface of a tooth. they can grow deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the pulp.
  • Periodontal: also known as gum disease. It’s an infection of the gums. and the deeper structures of the teeth (periodontal ligament, jawbone, and cementum). Common symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding.
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism): many people only do it when sleeping. or Stress, anxiety .over time, bruxism can wear down tooth enamel, leading to damage and even tooth loss. 
  • Gingivitis: Inflammation of the surface portion of the gums, around and between the crowns of the teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis.
  • Plaque: is a soft deposit that forms a thin film and sticks on the surface of teeth and can be seen at the gum boundaries using discs disclosure. The bacteria in the plaque convert carbohydrates (such as sugar) into acid that removes tooth mineralization and ultimately causes necrosis or caries..
  • Tartar: If plaque is not removed, it mixes with minerals to become tartar, a harder substance. Tartar requires professional cleaning for removal.
  • Tooth sensitivity: When one or more teeth become sensitive to hot or cold, it may mean the dentin is exposed.
  • Malocclusion: Malocclusion is the misalignment of teeth. This can cause crowding, underbites, or overbites. It’s often hereditary, Malocclusion can usually be corrected with braces.
  • Tooth erosion: is the breakdown and loss of enamel caused by acid or friction. long-term dry mouth can also cause friction, leading to tooth erosion.
  • Tooth impaction: it happens when there isn’t enough space for a new tooth to emerge, usually due to overcrowding. It’s common in wisdom teeth.
  • Tooth surface: To identifying teeth and referring to specific areas of a tooth, it is necessary to utilize named surfaces according to where it is located.
  • Buccal (B): The surface towards the cheeks (molars and premolars).
  • Lingual (L): The surface facing the inside (tongue/palate) of the mouth. 
  • Proximal: Tooth surfaces that are next to each other (i.e., distal of lateral incisor and mesial of canine). 
  • Mesial (M): the surface towards the midline of the mouth (anterior tooth).
  • Distal (D): The surface away from the midline of the mouth(anterior tooth).
  • Occlusal (O): The biting surface of posterior teeth (premolars and molars). 
  • Incisal: The biting edge of an anterior tooth (incisors and canines). 
  • Cervical: The junction between the crown and root.
  • Gingival: close to or in proximity to gingiva.
  • Palatal: Next to the palate (maxillary teeth only).
  • Apical: At the apex of the tooth root.
  • Line Angles: The line angle is the line which joins two surfaces. It derives its name from the combined names of these two surfaces. For instance, on an anterior tooth, the junction of the mesial and labial surfaces is called the (mesiolabial line angle).
  • Point Angles: The point angle is the point which joins three surfaces. The point angle also derives its name from the combined names of the surfaces it joins.
  • A Lobe: it is one of the primary centers of calcification and growth formed during the crown development - each tooth develops from four lobes or more: cusps, cingulum, and mamelons. 
  • A mamelon: they are three small round projections of enamel present on the incisal ridge of newly erupted incisors and they represent the three labial lobes of anterior teeth.
  • A tubercle: is a smaller elevation on some portion of the crown produced by an extra formation of enamel (deviation from typical) - tubercle differs from cusp as it is formed of enamel only while cusp is formed of pulp horn covered by dentin and enamel. 
  • A cingulum: a rounded elevation on t the cervical third of the lingual surface of an anterior tooth. (incisors and canines) It represents the lingual lobe of anterior teeth, also called lingo-cervical ridge as it represents the maximum convexity of the lingual surface and it is present on the same line with cervical ridge labially.
  • A cusp: is an elevation found on the occlusal surfaces of premolars and molars teeth and the incisal portion of the canines.
  • A ridge: Is a linear elevation on the different surfaces of the crown. it can be further classified according to its location and shape.
  • Spacing: spaces, between the teeth as a result of missing teeth or teeth that do not "fill up" the mouth. This is the opposite of crowding.
  • Misplaced midline: when the center of your upper front teeth does not line up with the center of your lower front teeth.
  • Crowding: In a narrow jaw, when there are too many teeth for the dental ridge to accommodate. The orthodontist may remove one or more teeth to make room for the others.
  • Underbite: where The upper teeth are too far back, or the lower teeth are too far forward.
  • Open bite: When there is an opening between the upper and lower teeth, when the back teeth bite together.
  • Proximal (marginal) ridges: Linear elevations present on the mesial and distal boundaries of the lingual surfaces of all anterior teeth and the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth.
  • Labial ridge: linear elevation present on the labial surface of the canines, and represents overdevelopment of the middle. It extends vertically from the cervical line to the tip of the cusp.
  • Buccal ridge: is a pronounced buccal elevation of the middle lobe of premolars. It extends vertically from the cervical line to the tip of the buccal cusp, and represents overdevelopment of the middle buccal lobe.
  • Lingual ridge: is a vertical elevation extending from, the
  • Cervical ridge: is a horizontal elevation formed of enamel at the cervical third of the crown of all teeth facially and some lingually, and represents the maximum convexity of these surfaces.
  • Incisal ridge: is a linear elevation present on the incisal one third of the lingual surfaces of all anterior teeth above the incisal edge. The ridge is transformed into an edge as attrition removes some of the incisal enamel.
  • Triangular ridge: is the ridge that descends from the tip of the cusp of molar and premolar toward the central part of the occlusal surfaces. All posterior tooth cusps have a triangular ridge, except the mesiolingual cusp on maxillary molars which has two triangular ridges.
  • Oblique ridge: linear elevation present on the occlusal surfaces of upper molars and represents union between two triangular ridges obliquely crossing the occlusal surfaces of the maxillary molar. (always mesiolingual cusp and distobuccal cusp).
  • Transverse ridge: is a linear elevation present on the occlusal surfaces of lower premolars and represents union between triangular ridges of two transversally crossing the occlusal surface of posterior teeth e.g., upper 1 and 2 premolars.
  • Developmentals groove: is a linear depression found on the occlusal surfaces of the posterior teeth and may extend to buccal or lingual surface. It denotes the union of the primary parts of the crown.
  • A groove: Is a linear depression on the crown surfaces of the teeth.
  • Supplemental groove: is a shallow linear depression on the occlusal surface. Which does not denote union of lobes. It radiates from the developmental groove.
  • A fissure: is a narrow linear depression-present at the depth of the developmental groove during its development. It denotes incomplete union between lobes.
  • A sulcus: is a long valley on the occlusal surface running between the cusps and ridges, Its inclined surfaces meet centrally in the developmental groove.
  • A fossa: is a small depression or concavity on the occlusal or lingual surfaces of teeth
  • Triangular fossa: it is found on the occlusal surface of posterior mesial and distal to the marginal ridges. It is triangular in form and bounded by the developmental grooves.
  • Central fossa: it is found on the occlusal surfaces of molars. It may be circular or irregular in form. It is formed at the point of termination of the triangular ridges of cusps.
  • Lingual fossa: is located in the lingual surfaces of incisors and may be centrally divided by the lingual ridge in canines.
  • A pit: it is a pinpoint depression in enamel which may be true or false.
  • Contact area: the area on proximal surface of the crown that contacts the adjacent tooth in the same arch, and is thus named mesial and distal by location.
  • Embrasure: the open space between the proximal surfaces of two adjacent teeth in the same arch, where they diverge facially (buccally or labially) or lingually, and incisally (occlusally) or cevically from the contact area (are named according to their location) e.g., when viewing the teeth from the incisal or occlusal aspect, the two embrasures which are visible are named labial (buccal) and lingual embrasures.
  • The height of contour: (also know the crest of curvature) It is the greatest area of contour inciso-cervically or occluso-cervically on the facial and lingual surfaces (is best observed by viewing these surface outlines from a proximal aspect).
  • Dental implant surgery: is a procedure that is made to match your natural teeth. Dental implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone and fulfill the role that the root did in the original teeth.
  • Endosteal: These dental implants are placed in the jawbone. And they are the most commonly used type of implant.
  • Subperiosteal: These dental implants are placed under the gum or above the jawbone. This type of implant may be used in patients who do not have enough healthy natural jawbone and cannot.
  • Overbite: where the upper front teeth lie too far forward (stick out) over the lower teeth.
  • Cusp ridges: they are ridges that descend from each cusp tip mesially and distally. They are called mesial cusp ridge or mesial slope and distal cusp ridge or distal slope. They are present in the canines and cusps of the posterior teeth.
  • Crossbite: when the upper teeth do not come down slightly in front of the lower teeth when biting together normally. They are too near the cheek or the tongue.
  • Impacted teeth: This can happen when adult tooth does not emerge from the gum or bone, or only emerges partially.
  • Deep bite / overbite: When the teeth are clenched, the upper ones come down too far over the lower ones.
  • Reverse bite: When the teeth are clenched, the upper teeth bite inside the lower ones.
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