Dental Terminology & Anatomy Flashcards

In dental notation, what does 'quadrant' refer to?

Answer: One of four sections dividing the mouth into upper-right, upper-left, lower-right, lower-left

A quadrant is one of four equal sections of the mouth divided by the midline and occlusal plane.

What is 'ankylosis' in dentistry?

Answer: Fusion of the tooth root to the alveolar bone with no periodontal ligament space

Ankylosis occurs when the tooth root fuses directly to alveolar bone, obliterating the PDL space, often causing the tooth to appear submerged.

The maxillary sinus is most closely associated with which teeth?

Answer: Maxillary premolars and molars

The maxillary sinus (antrum of Highmore) is in proximity to the roots of maxillary premolars and molars, relevant in extractions and implant planning.

What does 'interproximal' mean?

Answer: Between adjacent tooth surfaces

Interproximal refers to the area between adjacent teeth, including the contact point and surrounding tissues.

Which term describes the wearing away of tooth structure caused by chemical erosion from acids?

Answer: Erosion

Erosion is the loss of tooth structure due to acid dissolution from intrinsic (GERD) or extrinsic (dietary acids) sources.

What is the 'mental foramen'?

Answer: An opening in the mandible through which the mental nerve and vessels exit

The mental foramen is located on the lateral aspect of the mandible, typically near the premolar region, and transmits the mental nerve and vessels.

What is 'taurodontism'?

Answer: Enlarged pulp chambers with apical displacement of the pulp floor in molar teeth

Taurodontism is a developmental anomaly where molar teeth have enlarged pulp chambers with an apical shift of the pulp floor and furcation.