Dental Terminology & Anatomy Flashcards
7 cards from real CDC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Dental Terminology & Anatomy flashcards as text
Which anatomical landmark is the junction between the enamel and cementum on a tooth?
Answer: Cementoenamel junction (CEJ)
The cementoenamel junction (CEJ) is where enamel of the crown meets cementum of the root.
The term 'mesial' in dental anatomy refers to which direction?
Answer: Toward the midline of the dental arch
Mesial refers to the surface or direction closest to the midline of the dental arch.
What is the name of the fibrous connective tissue that anchors the tooth to the alveolar bone?
Answer: Periodontal ligament (PDL)
The periodontal ligament (PDL) consists of collagen fibers that suspend and anchor the tooth within the alveolar socket.
Which term describes the biting surface of posterior teeth?
Answer: Occlusal
The occlusal surface is the chewing or biting surface found on premolars and molars.
What is 'alveolar bone'?
Answer: The bone that surrounds and supports the tooth roots
Alveolar bone is the specialized bone that forms the tooth sockets (alveoli) and supports the teeth.
The term 'xerostomia' refers to which condition?
Answer: Dry mouth due to reduced salivary flow
Xerostomia is the subjective sensation of dry mouth, often caused by medications or systemic conditions affecting salivary glands.
Which tooth surface faces the cheek?
Answer: Buccal
The buccal surface of posterior teeth faces the cheek (bucca means cheek in Latin).