Terminologies Flashcards
A branch of dentistry specializing in the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws.
Orthodontics
A condition where the teeth are not properly aligned when the jaws are closed.
Malocclusion
The upper jawbone.
Maxilla
The lower jawbone.
Mandible
The contact between the upper and lower teeth.
Occlusion
The curved arrangement of the teeth in each jaw (maxillary arch and mandibular arch).
Arch
2 types of Arch
Maxillary Arch and Mandibular Arch
An imaginary line dividing the dental arches symmetrically into left and right sides.
Midline
Normal bite with minor crowding or spacing issues.
Class I
The upper teeth protrude beyond the lower teeth.
Class II (Overbite)
The lower teeth are positioned in front of the upper teeth.
Class III (Underbite)
A condition where the front teeth do not touch when the back teeth are closed.
Open Bite
A condition where the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth.
Crossbite
Fixed orthodontic devices composed of brackets, wires, and bands to align teeth.
Braces
Removable transparent trays (like Invisalign) used to straighten teeth.
Aligners
Devices used after orthodontic treatment to maintain tooth alignment.
Retainers
External appliance used to control jaw growth and tooth movement.
Headgear
A device used to widen the upper jaw.
Palatal Expander
Attaching brackets to teeth with adhesive.
Bonding
Removal of brackets after treatment.
Debonding
Molds taken of the teeth for study and device fabrication.
Impressions
Regular appointments to tighten wires or adjust appliance.
Adjustment
Insufficient space for teeth alignment.
Crowding
Excessive gaps between teeth.
Spacing
Horizontal protrusion of upper teeth beyond lower teeth.
Overjet
Movement of teeth back to their original positions after treatment.
Relapse