abutment n (1634) 1: that part of a structure that directly receives thrust or pressure; an anchorage 2: a tooth, a portion of a tooth, or that portion of a dental implant that serves to support and/or retain a prosthesis usage see IMPLANT A, INTERMEDIATE A
acrylic resin 1: pertaining to polymers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or acrylonitril; for example acrylic fibers or acrylic resins 2: any of a group of thermoplastic resins made by polymerizing esters of acrylic or methyl methacrylate acids
acrylic resin basea denture base made of acrylic resin
activated resin obssee AUTOPOLYMERIZING RESIN adhesion n (1624) 1: the property of remaining in close proximity, as that resulting from the physical attraction of molecules to a substance, or molecular attraction existing between the surfaces of bodies in contact 2: the stable joining of parts to each other, which may occur abnormally 3: a fibrous band or structure by which parts abnormally adhere comp to CAPSULAR FIBROSIS, FIBROUS A, INTRACASULAR A, MYOFIBROTIC CONTRACTURE 2 adhesive n (1912) 1: any substance which creates close adherence to or on adjoining surfaces 2: a luting agent see DENTURE A, MAXILLOFACIAL PROSTHETIC A
adjustable articulatoran articulator that allows some limited adjustment in the sagittal and horizontal planes to replicate recorded mandibular movements see ARTICULATOR
ala-tragus line a line running from the inferior border of the ala of the nose to some defined point on the tragus of the ear, usually considered to be the tip of the tragus. It is frequently used, with a third point on the opposing tragus, for the purpose of establishing the ala-tragus plane. Ideally the ala-tragus plane is considered to be parallel to the occlusal plane. The occlusal plane is at an angle of approximately 10o relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane, when viewed in the mid-sagittal plane. see CAMPERS LINE
allograft n (1964): a graft of tissue between genetically dissimilar members of the same species called also allogeneic graft and homograft
alloplastic materialany non-biologic material suitable for implantation as an alloplast alloy n (14c): a mixture of two or more metals or metalloids that are mutually soluble in the molten state; distinguished as binary, ternary, quaternary, etc, depending on the number of metals within the mixture. Alloying elements are added to alter the hardness, strength and toughness of a metallic element, thus obtaining properties not found in the pure metal. Alloys may also be classified on the basis of their behavior when solidified usage see BASE METAL A, NOBLE METAL A
altered casta master cast that is revised, in part, prior to processing a denture base called also corrected cast, modified cast
altered cast partial denture impressiona negative likeness of a portion or portions of the edentulous denture bearing area(s) made independently of and following the initial impression of the natural teeth. This technique employs an impression tray(s) attached to the removable partial denture framework, or its likeness
alveolar bonethe bony portion of the mandible or maxillae in which the roots of the teeth are held by fibers of the periodontal ligament called also dental alveolus alveolar crest: see RESIDUAL RIDGE CREST alveolar mucosa: the mucosal covering of the alveolar process, loosely attached to the bone
alveolar resorption see RESIDUAL RIDGE RESORPTION
alveolar ridgesee RESIDUAL RIDGE alveolectomy n: see OSTEOTOMY
alveolus n, pl alveoli (ca. 1706): one of the cavities or sockets within the alveolar process of the maxillae or mandible in which the root of a tooth was held by the attachment complex, after the tooth's removal
anatomic crownthat portion of a natural tooth which extends from its cementoenamel junction to the occlusal surface or incisal edge called also anatomical crown
anatomic landmarksa recognizable anatomic structure used as a point of reference
anatomic teeth 1: artificial teeth which duplicate the anatomic forms of natural teeth 2: teeth which have prominent cusps on the masticating surfaces and which are designed to articulate with the teeth of the opposing natural or prosthetic dentition 3: anatomic teeth have cuspal inclinations greater than 0o and tend to replica natural tooth anatomy usage cusp teeth (30-45o) are considered anatomic teeth. Modified occlusal forms are those with a 20o cusp incline or less called also anatomical teeth Boucher CO J Prosthet Dent 1953; 3(5):633-656
angle of gingival convergence 1: according to Schneider, the angle of gingival convergence is located apical to the height of contour on the abutment tooth. It can be identified by viewing the angle formed by the tooth surface gingival to the survey line and the analyzing rod or undercut gauge in a surveyor as it contacts the height of contour 2: the angle formed by any surface of the tooth below the survey line of the height of contour, with the selected path of insertion of a prosthesis 3: the angle formed by the tooth surface below the height of contour with the vertical plane, when the occlusal surface of the tooth is oriented parallel to the horizontal plane Schneider, J Prosthet Dent 1987; 58:194-196
Angle's classification of occlusion [Edward Harley Angle, American orthodontist, 1855-1930]: eponym for a classification system of occlusion based upon the interdigitation of the first molar teeth originally described by Angle as four major groups depending upon the anteroposterior jaw relationship. Class IV is no longer used. Class I (normal occlusion or neutrocclusion): the dental relationship in which there is normal anteroposterior relationship of the jaws, as indicated by correct interdigitation of maxillary and mandibular molars, but with crowding and rotation of teeth elsewhere, ie. a dental dysplasia or arch length deficiency. Class II (distocclusion): the dental relationship in which the mandibular dental arch is posterior to the maxillary dental arch in one or both lateral segments; the mandibular first molar is distal to the maxillary first molar. Further sub divided into two divisions. Division 1: bilateral distal retrusion with a narrow maxillary arch and protruding maxillary incisors. Subdivisions include right or left (unilaterally distal with other characteristics being the same). Division 2: bilateral distal with a normal or square shaped maxillary arch, retruded maxillary central incisors, labially malposed maxillary lateral incisors and an excessive vertical overlap. Subdivisions include right or left (unilaterally distal with other characteristics the same). Class III (mesiocclusion): the dental relationship in which the mandibular arch is anterior to the maxillary arch in one or both lateral segments; the mandibular first molar is mesial to the maxillary first molar. The mandibular incisors are usually in anterior cross bite. Subdivisions include right or left (unilaterally mesial with other characteristics the same). Class IV: the dental relationship in which the occlusal relations of the dental arches present the peculiar condition of being in distal occlusion in one lateral half and in mesial occlusion in the other (no longer used). Angle EM. Classification of malocclusion. Dental Cosmos 1899; 41(3):248-64, 350-7
angular cheilitisinflammation of the lip or lips with redness and the production of fissures radiating from the angles of the mouth called also perleche
ankyloglossia n: restricted movement of the tongue, often due to the position of the lingual frenulum, resulting in speech impediments; may be complete or partial called also adherent tongue, lingua frenata, and tongue-tie
ankylosis n, pl -loses (1713): immobility and consolidation of a joint or tooth due to injury, disease or a surgical procedure see BONY A, EXTRACAPSULAR A, FIBROUS A, INTRACAPSULAR A; spelled also anchylosis
anneal vt (1580) 1: to heat a material, such as metal or glass, followed by controlled cooling to remove internal stresses and create a desired degree of toughness, temper or softness to a material 2: to heat a material, such as gold foil, to volatilize and drive off impurities from its surface, thus increasing its cohesive properties. This process is termed degassing 3: to homogenize an amalgam alloy by heating in an oven
anodontian a rare dental condition characterized by congenital absence of all teeth (both deciduous and permanent) comp to HYPODONTIA, OLIGODONTIA
Ante's Law [Irvin H. Ante, Toronto, Ontario Canada, dentist]: eponym, in fixed partial prosthodontics for the observation that the combined pericemental area of all abutment teeth supporting a fixed partial denture should be equal to or greater in pericemental area than the tooth or teeth to be replaced; as formulated for removable partial prosthodontics, the combined pericemental area of the abutment teeth plus the mucosa area of the denture base should be equal to or greater than the pericemental area of the missing teeth. Ante IH. The fundamental principles, design and construction of crown and bridge pros thesis. Dent Item Int 1928; 50: 215-232
anterior programming devicean individually fabricated anterior guide table that allows mandibular motion without the influence of tooth contacts and facilitates the recording of maxillomandibular relationships; also used for deprogramming see also DEPROGRAMMER
anterior reference pointany point located on the midface that, together with two posterior reference points, establishes a reference plane
anterior tooth arrangementthe positioning of the anterior teeth for esthetics and phonetics
anterior tooth formthe outline form as viewed in any selected plane and other contours of an anterior tooth
anteroposterior curve: the anatomical curve established by the occlusal alignment of the teeth, as projected onto the median plane, beginning with the cusp tip of the mandibular canine and following the buccal cusp tips of the premolar and molar teeth, continuing through the anterior border of the mandibular ramus, ending with the anterior most portion of the mandibular condyle. First described by Ferdinand Graf Spee, German anatomist, in 1890 see CURVE OF SPEE
arbitrary facebowa device used to arbitrarily relate the maxillary cast to the condylar elements of an articulator. The position of the transverse horizontal axis is estimated on the face before using this device comp AVERAGE AXIS FACEBOW
arc of closurethe circular or elliptic arc created by closure of the mandible, most often viewed in the mid-sagittal plane, using a reference point on the mandible (frequently either mandibular central incisors' mesial incisal edge)
arcon a contraction of the words "ARTICULATOR" and "CONDYLE", used to describe an articulator containing the condylar path elements within its upper member and the condylar elements within the lower member
arcon articulatoran articulator which applies the arcon design. This instrument maintains anatomic guidelines by the use of condylar analogs in the mandibular element, and fossae assemblies within the maxillary element
arthrodial jointa joint that allows gliding motion of the surfaces articular adj (15c): of or relating to a joint 27
articulator n: a mechanical instrument that represents the temporomandibular joints and jaws, to which maxillary and mandibular casts may be attached to simulate some or all mandibular movements usage articulators are divisible into four classes Class I articulator: a simple holding instrument capable of accepting a single static registration. Vertical motion is possible see NONADJUSTABLE A. Class II articulator: an instrument that permits horizontal as well as vertical motion but does not orient the motion to the temporomandibular joints. Class III articulator: an instrument that simulates condylar pathways by using averages or mechanical equivalents for all or part of the motion. These instruments allow for orientation of the casts relative to the joints and may be arcon or non-arcon instruments see SEMIADJUSTABLE A. Class IV articulator: an instrument that will accept three dimensional dynamic registrations. These instruments allow for orientation of the casts to the tem poromandibular joints and replication of all mandibular movements see FULLY ADJUSTABLE A, FULLY ADJUSTABLE GNATHOLOGIC A
artificial crowna metal, plastic or ceramic restoration that covers three or more axial surfaces as well as the occlusal surface or incisal edge of a tooth
asepsis n (1892) 1: free from infection 2: the prevention of contact with microorganisms
aseptic adj (ca 1859): free of infection or septic material; sterile; free from pathogenic microorganisms aseptically adv
asymmetry n (1690): absence or lack of symmetry or balance; dissimilarity in corresponding parts or organs on opposite sides of the body
atrophy n, plphies (1601) 1: a wasting away 2: a diminution in size of a cell, tissue, organ or part –
atrophic adj atrophy vb see ADIPOSE A, AGE A, BONE A, DISUSE A, MUSCULAR A, POSTMENOPAUSAL A, SENILE A
attached gingivathat portion of the gingiva which is firm, dense, stippled, and tightly bound to the underlying periosteum, bone and tooth
attachment n (15c) 1: a mechanical device for the fixation, retention, and stabilization of a prosthesis 2: a retainer consisting of a metal receptacle and a closely fitting part; the former, the female (matrix) component, is usually contained within the normal or expanded contours of the crown of the abutment tooth and the latter, the male (patrix) component, is attached to a pontic or the denture framework see FRICTIONAL A, INTERNAL A, KEY & KEYWAY A, PARALLEL A, PRECISION A, SLOTTED A
attrition n (14c) 1: the act of wearing or grinding down by friction 2: the normal mechanical wear resulting from mastication, limited to contacting surfaces of the teeth comp to ABRASION, EROSION
atypical facial paina painful syndrome characterized by dull aching or throbbing, rather than paroxysms of pain, such as seen in trigeminal, glossopharyngeal, or postherapeutic neuralgia, occurring in areas supplied by various nerve groups including the fifth and ninth cranial nerves and the second and third cervical nerves. The distribution of atypical facial pain does not follow the established pathways of innervation of the major sensory nerves however (ie. trigeminal neuralgia). Attacks last from a few days to several months and seem to occur following dental work or sinus manipulation, but examination of the teeth, nose, sinuses, ears, and temporomandibular joints seldom reveals any abnormalities. A psychogenic etiology has been suggested. This is believed by some to not be a specific disease entity but rather a symptom, the etiology of which has not been determined called also atypical facial neuralgia and facial causalgia
autogenous adj (1846): originating or derived from sources within the same individual; self-produced; self-generated; autologous
autogenous grafta graft taken from the patients own bodycalled also autograft
autopolymer n: a material which polymerizes by chemical reaction without external heat, as a result of the addition of an activator and a catalyst
autopolymerizing resin: a resin whose polymerization is initiated by a chemical activator axial inclination 1: the relationship of the long axis of a body to a designated plane 2: in dentistry, the alignment of the long axis of a tooth to a horizontal plane
axis orbital planethe horizontal plane established by the transverse horizontal axis of the mandible with a point on the inferior border of the right or left bony orbit (orbitale). This plane can be used as a horizontal reference point
B (top)
balanced occlusal contactsee NONWORKING SIDE OCCLUSAL CONTACTS
balanced occlusionsee BALANCED ARTICULATION
balancing interferenceundesirable contact(s) of opposing occlusal surfaces, on the nonworking side
balancing occlusal contactsee NONWORKING SIDE OCCLUSAL CONTACTS balancing occlusal surfaces obs: the occluding surfaces of dentures on the balancing side (anteroposteriorly or laterally) which are developed for the purpose of stabilizing dentures (GPT-4)
bar claspa clasp retainer whose body extends from a major connector or denture base, passing adjacent to the soft tissues and approaching the tooth from a gingivo-occlusal direction
bar connectora metal component of greater length than width which serves to connect the parts of a removable partial denture usage see LABIAL BC, LINGUAL BC, PALATAL BC. base material obs: any substance of which a denture base may be made, such as acrylic resin, vulcanite, polystyrene or metal (GPT-4)
base metalany metallic element that does not resist tarnish and corrosion see NOBLE METAL
base metal alloyan alloy composed of metals which are not noble
baseplate n: see RECORD BASE baseplate wax: a hard pink wax used for making occlusion rims, waxing dentures and other dental procedures
board-certified prosthodontistin the United States, as defined by the American Board of Prosthodontics, a prosthodontist who has passed the certifying examination administered by the American Board of Prosthodontics
board-eligible prosthodontist in the United States, as defined by the American Board of Prosthodontics, a prosthodontist whose application for examination for certification is cur rent and has been accepted for examination by the American Board of Prosthodontics
border molding 1: the shaping of the border areas of an impression tray by functional or manual manipulation of the tissue adjacent to the borders to duplicate the contour and size of the vestibule 2: determining the extension of a prosthesis by using tissue function or manual manipulation of the tissues to shape the border areas of an impression material
boxing an impressionthe enclosure of an impression to produce the desired size and form of the base of the cast and to preserve desired details
boxing waxwax used for boxing an impression
buccal vestibule that portion of the oral cavity which is bounded on one side by the teeth, gingiva, and alveolar ridge (in the edentulous mouth, the residual ridge) and on the lateral side by the cheeks posterior to the buccal frenula
C (top)
Camper's plane 1: a plane established by the inferior border of the right or left ala of the nose and the superior border of the tragus of both ears 2: a plane passing from the acanthion to the center of the bony external auditory meatus; called also acanthion external auditory meatus plane see also ALA-TRAGUS LINE canine guidance: see CANINE PROTECTED ARTICULATION canine protection: see CANINE PROTECTED ARTICULATION
cantilever fixed partial denture a fixed partial denture in which the pontic is cantilevered, ie. is retained and sup ported only on one end by one or more abutments 1cast vb (13c): to produce a shape by thrusting a molten liquid or plastic material into a mold possessing the desired shape
cast n (14c): a life size likeness of some desired form. It is formed within or is a material poured into a matrix or impression of the desired form comp MODEL see DENTAL C, DIAGNOSTIC C, MASTER C, PRELIMINARY C, REFRACTORY C, REMOUNT C
centric occlusionthe occlusion of opposing teeth when the mandible is in centric relation. This may or may not coincide with the maximum intercuspation position see MAXIMUM INTERCUSPATION
centric relation 1: the maxillomandibular relationship in which the condyles articulate with the thinnest avascular portion of their respective disks with the complex in the anterior superior position against the shapes of the articular eminences. This position is independent of tooth contact. This position is clinically discernible when the mandible is directed superiorly and anteriorly. It is restricted to a purely rotary movement about the transverse horizontal axis. (GPT-5) 2: the most retruded physiologic relation of the mandible to the maxillae to and from which the individual can make lateral movements. It is a condition which can exist at various degrees of jaw separation. It occurs around the terminal hinge axis. (GPT-3) 3: the most retruded relation of the mandible to the maxillae when the condyles are in the most posterior unstrained position in the glenoid fossae from which lateral movement can be made, at any given degree of jaw separation (GPT-1) 4: The most posterior relation of the lower to the upper jaw from which lateral movements can be made at a given vertical dimension. (Boucher) 5: a maxilla to mandible relationship in which the condyles and disks are thought to be in the midmost, uppermost position. The position has been difficult to define anatomically but is determined clinically by assessing when the jaw can hinge on a fixed terminal axis (up to 25mm). It is a clinically determined relationship of the mandible to the maxilla when the condyle-disk assemblies are positioned in their most superior position in the mandibular fossae and against the distal slope of the articular eminence (Ash). 6: the relation of the mandible to the maxillae when the condyles are in the uppermost and rearmost position in the glenoid fossae. This position may not be able to be recorded in the presence of dysfunction of the masticatory system. 7: a clinically determined position of the mandible placing both condyles into their anterior uppermost position. This can be determined in patients without pain or derangement in the TMJ (Ramsfjord). Boucher CO. Occlusion in prosthodontics. J ProsthetDent 1953; 3:633-656. Ash MM. Personal Communication. Lang BR, Kelsey CC. International Prosthodontic Workshop on Complete Denture Occlusion. Ann Arbor, MI: The University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1973. Ramsfjord SP. Personal Communication. cingulum rest: a portion of a partial denture that contacts the prepared or natural cingulum of the tooth, termed the cingulum rest seat
circumferential claspa retainer that encircles a tooth by more than 180 degrees, including opposite angles, and which generally contacts the tooth throughout the extent of the clasp, with at least one terminal located in an undercut area
clasp assembly that part of a removable partial denture which acts as a direct retainer and/or stabilizer for a prosthesis by partially encompassing or contacting an abutment tooth usage components of the clasp assembly include the clasp, the reciprocal clasp, the cingulum, incisal or occlusal rest and the minor connector
clicking n (1611): a series of clicks, such as the snapping, cracking, or noise evident on excursions of the mandible; a distinct snapping sound or sensation, usually audible (or by stethoscope) or on palpation, which emanates from the tem poromandibular joint(s) during jaw movement. It may or may not be associated with internal derangements of the tem
closest speaking spacethe space between the teeth which, ac cording to Dr. Earl Pound, should not be more or less than 1 or 2 mm clearance between the incisal edges of the anterior teeth when the patient is unconsciously repeating the letter "S". Dr. Meyer M. Silverman termed this speaking centric which was defined as the closest relationship of the occlusal surfaces and incisal edges of the mandibular teeth to the maxillary teeth during function and rapid speech. This was later called closest speaking level by Dr. Silverman and finally the closest speaking space. Silverman MM. Speaking centric. The Dent Digest, 1950; 55:106-111. Silverman MM. Accurate measurement of vertical dimension by phonetics and speaking centric space. The Dent Digest, 1951; 57:261-265. Silverman, MM. The speaking method in measuring vertical dimension. J Prosthet Dent 1953; 3:193-199. Pound E. Esthetics and phonetics in full denture construction. J Calif Dent Assoc 1950; 20:179-185. Pound E. The mandibular movements of speech and their seven related values. J Prosthet Dent 1966; 16:835-843. Pound E. The vertical dimension of speech, the pilot of occlusion. J Calif Dent Assoc 1975; 6:42-47Pound E. Let /s/ be your guide. J Prosthet Dent 1977; 38:482-489
combination clasp a circumferential retainer for a removable partial denture which has a cast reciprocal arm and a wrought wire retentive clasp combination syndrome: the characteristic features which occur when an edentulous maxilla is opposed by natural mandibular anterior teeth, including loss of bone from the anterior portion of the maxillary ridge, overgrowth of the tuberosities, papillary hyperplasia of the hard palate's mucosa, extrusion of the lower anterior teeth and loss of alveolar bone and ridge height beneath the mandibular removable partial denture bases syn ANTERIOR HYPERFUNCTION SYNDROME
compensating curve 1: the anteroposterior curvature (in the median plane) and the mediolateral curvature (in the frontal plane) in the alignment of the occluding surfaces and incisal edges of artificial teeth which are used to develop balanced occlusion 2: the curve introduced in the construction of complete dentures to compensate for the opening influences produced by the condylar and incisal guidances during lateral and protrustive mandibular excursive movements called also compensating curvature, compensating
complementary colorstwo colors which, when mixed together, in proper proportions, result in a neutral color. Colored lights which are complementary, when mixed in an additive manner, form white light and follow the laws of additive color mixture. Colorants which are complementary, when mixed together, form black or gray and follow the laws of subtractive colorant mixture. complete denture: a removable dental prosthesis which replaces the entire dentition and associated structures of the maxillae or mandible
complete denture prosthetics
obs 1: the replacement of the natural teeth in the arch and their associated parts by artificial substitutes 2: the art and science of the restoration of an edentulous mouth (GPT-4) see COMPLETE DENTURE PROSTHODONTICS
complete denture prosthodonticsthat body of knowledge and skills pertaining to the restoration of the edentulous arch with a removable prosthesis
condylar guidance 1 vt: mandibular guidance generated by the condyles traversing the contours of the glenoid fossae; condylar guidance 2 n: the mechanical form located in the upper posterior region of an articulator which controls movement of its mobile member
coronoid processthe thin triangular rounded eminence originating from the anterosuperior surface of the ramus of the mandible see HYPERTROPHY OF THE CP
crown n (12c) 1: the highest part, as the topmost part of the skull, head or tooth; the summit; that portion of a tooth occlusal to the dentoenamel junction or an artificial substitute for this 2: an artificial replacement that restores missing tooth structure by surrounding part or all of the remaining structure with a material such as cast metal, porcelain, or a combination of materials such as metal and porcelain
crown-root ratiothe physical relationship between that portion of the tooth within alveolar bone as compared to that portion not within the alveolar bone, as determined radiographically
curve of Wilson [George H. Wilson, Cleveland, Ohio, USA dentist, 1855-1922] 1: eponym for the MEDIOLATERAL CURVE 2: in the theory that occlusion should be spherical, the curvature of the cusps as projected on the frontal plane expressed in both arches; the curve in the lower arch being concave and the one in the upper arch being convex. The curvature in the lower arch is affected by an equal lingual inclination of the right and left molars so that the tip points of the corresponding cross-aligned cusps can be placed into the circumferences of a circle. The transverse cuspal curvature of the upper teeth is affected by the equal buccal inclinations of their long axes. Wilson GH. A manual of dental prosthetics. Philadelphia, PA: Lea & Febiger 1911; 22-37
cusp anglethe angle made by the average slope of a cusp with the cusp plane measured mesiodistally or buccolingually
cusp heightthe perpendicular distance between the tip of a cusp and its base plane
D (top)
definitive partial denture 
(an example of) The grayish color is a medical grade chrome-cobalt material, the artificial teeth are made of a newly developed resin polymer, and the pinkish color of polymethylmethacrylate denture base material. This type of prosthesis is expected to be used for a long period of time.
dental arc the composite structure of the natural teeth and alveolar bone
dental implanta prosthetic device of alloplastic material implanted into the oral tissues beneath the mucosal or/and periosteal layer, and/or within the bone to provide retention and support for a fixed or removable prosthesis; a substance that is placed into or/and upon the jaw bone to sup port a fixed or removable prosthesis usage: although dental implants may be classified by their silhouette or geometrical form (ie. fin, screw, cylinder, blade, basket, rootform etc) generally, dental implants are classified based upon their anchorage component as it relates to the alveolar bone which provides support and stability. Thus, there are eposteal dental implants, endosteal dental implants, and transosteal dental implants. Some dental implants possess both eposteal and endosteal components (by design or subsequent anchorage change); the decision as to what anchorage system provides the majority of support at initial placement determines which category is used to best describe the dental implant see also ENDOSTEAL DENTAL IM PLANT, EPOSTEAL DENTAL IMPLANT, TRANSOSTEAL DENTAL IMPLANT comp MUCOSAL INSERT
dentoformhaving the likeness of a tooth; a tooth like substitute
dentulous adj (1926) 1: possessing natural teeth 2: a condition in which natural teeth are present in the mouth syn DENTATE denture n (1874): an artificial substitute for missing natural teeth and adjacent tissues usage see ACRYLIC RESIN D, COMPLETE D, DIAGNOSTIC D, DUPLICATE D, ESTHETIC D, EXTEN SION BASE REMOVABLE PARTIAL D, FIXED PARTIAL D, IMMEDIATE D, IMPLANT D, INTERIM D, OVERDENTURE, PARTIAL D, PROVISIONAL D, REMOVABLE PARTIAL D, ROTATIONAL PATH REMOV ABLE PARTIAL D, TRANSITIONAL D, TREATMENT D, TRIAL D, UNILATERAL REMOVABLE PARTIAL D
denture adhesivea material used to adhere a denture to the oral mucosa
denture basethat part of a denture which rests on the foundation tissues and to which teeth are attached usage see TINTED DB
denture base materialany substance of which a denture base may be made denture border 1: the margin of the denture base at the junction of the polished surface and the impression surface 2: the peripheral border of a denture base at the facial, lingual, and posterior limits
denture retention 1: the resistance in the movement of a denture away from its tissue foundation especially in a vertical direction 2: a quality of a denture that holds it to the tissue foundation and/or abutment teeth see DENTURE STABILITY
denture stability 1: the resistance of a denture to movement on its tissue foundation, especially to lateral (horizontal) forces as opposed to vertical displacement (termed denture retention) 2: a quality of a denture that permits it to maintain a state of equilibrium in relation to its tissue foundation and/or abutment teeth see DENTURE RETENTION
denture supporting structures obsthe tissues (teeth and/or residual ridges) which serve as the foundation for removable partial or complete dentures (GPT-4)
denturist n (1965) 1: any non-dentist who makes, fits, and repairs removable dentures directly for the public 2: a non dentist licensed to provide complete dentures directly to the public
disc displacement with reduction disc displacement in which the temporomandibular joint disc is displaced at rest (usually in an anterior-medial direction) but resumes a normal position on mandibular movement
disc displacement without reductiondisc displacement in which the temporomandibular joint disc is displaced at rest and does not resume a normal position on mandibular movement
disc lockingdisc derangement which will not reduce or restore to its normal place or relationship
distal extended partially edentulous patient
There is no natural tooth in the most posterior of the mandibular arch.
E (top)
earbow n (20c): an instrument similar to a facebow which indexes to the external auditory meatus and registers the relation of the maxillary dental arch to the external auditory meatus and a horizontal reference plane. This instrument is used to transfer the maxillary cast to the articulator. The earbow provides an average anatomic dimension between the external auditory meatus and the horizontal axis of the mandible see FACE-BOW
eccentric adj (14c) 1: not having the same center 2: deviating from a circular path 3: located elsewhere than at the geometrical center 4: any position of the mandible other than that which is its normal position
eccentric relationany relationship of the mandible to the maxilla other than centric relation see ACQUIRED ER
ectopic adj (1873): occurring in an abnormal position or in an unusual manner or form ectopically adv
educationally qualified prosthodontist in the United States, as defined by the American Board of Prosthodontics, a prosthodontist who has successfully completed an advanced educational program accredited by the ADA and is eligible to apply for examination by the American Board of Prosthodontics
endosteal dental implant a device placed into the alveolar and/or basal bone of the mandible or maxilla and transecting only one cortical plate. The endosteal dental implant is composed of an anchorage component, termed the endosteal dental implant body,which, ideally, is within the bone, and a retentive component, termed the endosteal dental implant abutment. The dental implant abutment connects to the implant body (by means of screws, thread/screw interfacing, compression/luting agent, etc. that can be termed elements), passes through the oral mucosa and serves to support and/or retain the prosthesis (whether fixed or removable). The dental implant abutment may be for interim or definitive application—usage interim abutment, definitive abutment. Descriptions of the dental implant body or/and the dental implant abutment that use silhouette or geometric forms, such as cylinder, conical, pre-angled, angled, blade, basket, or endodontic may be used as adjectives to enhance understanding of the geometry of any endosteal dental implant. Also, descriptive adjectives may be used to delineate the materials from which they are made, ie. a ceramic dental implant abutment. Interim or definitive dental implant abutments may be composed of one or more individual component parts, each of which is termed an elemenT. The dental implant abutment element(s) usually is (are) described by means of their geometric form, function or means of adaptation, ie, screw, coping, cylinder, lug, friction fitting, pressfit. Hence multiple adjectives may be used to describe both the endosteal dental implant body and abutment—see also BASKET EDI, BLADE EDI, DENTAL IMPLANT, ENDODONTIC EDI, EPOSTEAL DI, SCREW EDI, TRANSOSTEAL DI
equilibration n (1635) 1: the act or acts of placing a body in a state of equilibrium 2: the state or condition of being in equilibrium usage see MANDIBULAR E, OCCLUSAL E
erosion n (1541) 1: an eating away; a type of ulceration 2: in dentistry, the progressive loss of tooth substance by chemical processes that do not involve bacterial action producing defects that are sharply defined, wedge shaped depressions often in facial and cervical areas comp to ABFRACTION, ABRASION, ATTRITION
excursive movement movement occurring when the mandible moves away from maximum intercuspation
F (top)
face-bowa caliper-like instrument used to record the spatial relationship of the maxillary arch to some anatomic reference point or points and then transfer this relation ship to an articulator; it orients the dental cast in the same relationship to the opening axis of the articulator. Customarily the anatomic references are the mandibular condyles transverse horizontal axis and one other selected anterior point; called also hingebow see EAR-BOW, KINEMATIC F
face-bow forkthat component of the face-bow used to attach the occlusion rim to the face-bow face-bow record: the registration obtained by means of a face-bow
ferrule n (15c) 1: a metal band or ring used to fit the root or crown of a tooth 2: any short tube or bushing for making a tight joint
final impressionthat impression which represents the completion of the registration of the surface or object
fixed partial denturea partial denture that is luted or other wise securely retained to natural teeth, tooth roots, and/or dental implant abutments which furnish the primary support for the prosthesis usage with respect to a fixed partial denture retained upon dental implants, adjectives may be used to describe the means of attachment such as screw retained fpd, cement retained fpd. called also FIXED PROSTHESIS
foveae palatinaetwo small pits or depressions in the posterior aspect of the palate, one on each side of the midline, at or near the attachment of the soft palate to the hard palate
Frankfort horizontal plane 1: eponym for a plane established by the lowest point in the margin of the right or left bony or bit and the highest point in the margin of the right or left bony auditory meatus 2: a horizontal plane represented in profile by a line between the lowest point on the margin of the orbit to the highest point on the margin of the auditory meatus; adopted at the 13th General Congress of German Anthropologists (the "Frankfort Agreement") at Frankfort am Main, 1882, and finally by the International Agreement for the Unification of Craniometric and Cephalometric Measurements, in Monaco, in 1906; called also auriculo-orbital plane, eye-ear plane, Frankfort horizontal (FH), Frankfort horizontal line free gingival margin: the unattached gingiva surrounding the teeth in a collar-like fashion and demarcated from the attached gingiva by a shallow linear depression, termed the free gingival groove
fulcrum line 1: a theoretical line passing through the point around which a lever functions and at right angles to its path of movement 2: an imaginary line, connecting occlusal rests, around which a removable partial tends to rotate under masticatory forces. The determinants for the fulcrum line are usually the cross-arch occlusal rests located adjacent to the tissue borne components. see FL. OF A REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURE, RETENTIVE FL, STABILIZING FL
fully adjustable articulatoran articulator that allows replication of three dimensional movement of recorded mandibular motion called also Class IV articulator
G (top)
gingiva n, pl -e: the fibrous investing tissue, covered by epithelium, which immediately surrounds a tooth and is contiguous with its periodontal membrane and with the mucosal tissues of the mouth see ATTACHED G, FREE G, MARGINAL G
glaze vb glazed; glazing vt (14c) 1: to cover with a glossy, smooth surface or coating 2: the attainment of a smooth and reflective surface 3: the final firing of porcelain in which the surface is vitrified and a high gloss is imparted to the material 4: a ceramic veneer on a dental porcelain restoration after it has been fired, producing a nonporous, glossy or semiglossy surface see NATURAL G, OVERGLAZE
group functionmultiple contact relations between the maxillary and mandibular teeth in lateral movements on the working side whereby simultaneous contact of several teeth act as a group to distribute occlusal forces
guided tissue regenerationany procedure which attempts to regenerate lost periodontal structures through differential tissue responses. Barrier techniques, using resorbable or nonresorbable synthetic materials, are employed to exclude epithelial ingrowth which is believed to interfere with regeneration
H (top)
Hanau's Quint [Rudolph L. Hanau, (1881-1930) Buffalo, New York, USA engineer, born Capetown, South Africa]: rules for balanced denture articulation including incisal guidance, condylar guidance, cusp length, the plane of occlusion and the compensating curve described by Rudolph Hanau in 1926 Hanau R. Articulation defined, analyzed, and formulated. J Amer Dent Assoc 1926; 13:1694 1709
height of contoura line encircling a tooth and designating its greatest circumference at a selected axial position deter mined by a dental surveyor; a line encircling a body designating its greatest circumference in a specified plane
I (top)
immediate denturea complete denture or removable partial denture fabricated for placement immediately following the removal of natural teeth
implant prosthesisany prosthesis (fixed or removable) which utilizes dental implants in part or whole for retention, support and stability
implant prosthodonticsthat phase of prosthodontics concerning the replacement of missing teeth and/or associated structures by restorations that are attached to dental implants implant substructure: the metal framework of a eposteal dental implant which is embedded beneath the soft tissues, in con tact with the bone, and stabilized by means of endosteal screws. The periosteal tissues retain the framework to the bone. The framework supports the prosthesis, frequently by means of abutments and other superstructure components see IMPLANT BODY
impression materialany substance or combination of substances used for making an impression or negative reproduction
incisal guidance 1: the influence of the contacting surfaces of the mandibular and maxillary anterior teeth on mandibular movements 2: the influence of the contacting surfaces of the guide pin and guide table on articulator movements
incisive foramena foramen located in the midline on the anterior of the hard palate. It transmits the nasopalatine nerves and vessels called also nasopalatine foramen
incisive papillathe elevation of soft tissue covering the foramen of the incisive or nasopalatine canal
interference n (1783): in dentistry, any tooth contacts which interfere or hinder harmonious mandibular movement
interim prosthesisa fixed or removable prosthesis, designed to enhance esthetics, stabilization and/or function for a limited period of time after which it is to be replaced by a definitive prosthesis. Often such prostheses are utilized to assist in determination of the therapeutic effectiveness of a specific treatment plan or the form and function of the planned for definitive prosthesis syn PROVISIONAL PROS THESIS, PROVISIONAL RESTORATION, TREATMENT PROSTHESIS
interocclusal clearance 1: that arrangement in which the opposing occlusal surfaces may pass one another without any contact 2: the amount of reduction achieved during tooth preparation to provide for an adequate thickness of restorative material
interocclusal distancethe distance between the occluding surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular teeth when the mandible is in a specified position
interproximal contactthat area of a tooth which is in close association, connection or touch with an adjacent tooth in the same arch irreversible hydrocolloid: a hydrocolloid consisting of sols of alginic acid having a physical state which is changed by an irreversible chemical reaction forming insoluble calcium alginate called also alginate, dental alginate
J (top)
junctional epitheliuma single or multilayer of nonkeratinizing cells adhering to the tooth surface at the base of the gingival crevice called also epithelial attachment
K (top)
Kennedy classification of removable partial dentures [Edward Kennedy, American Dental Surgeon] variably dated 1923, 1925, 1928: a classification of partially edentulous arches divisible into four classes. Class 1: a bilateral edentulous areas located posterior to the remaining natural teeth. Class II: a unilateral edentulous area located posterior to the remaining natural teeth. Class III: a unilateral edentulous area with natural teeth located both anterior and posterior to it. Class IV: a single bilateral edentulous area located anterior to the remaining natural teeth. Edentulous areas, in addition to those determining the main types, were designated as modification spaces. OC. Applegate's Rules govern application of the Kennedy system. Kennedy E. Partial denture construction. Brooklyn,NY: Dental Items of Interest, 1928
keratinized gingivathe oral surface of the gingiva extending from the mucogingival junction to the gingival margin. In gingival health, the coronal portion of the sulcular epithelium may also be keratinized. The pattern of keratinization may be orthoorpara-
L (top)
labial vestibulethat portion of the oral cavity which is bounded on one side by the teeth, gingiva, and alveolar ridge (in the edentulous mouth, the residual ridge) and on the other by the lips anterior to the buccal frenula
land areathat portion of a dental cast which extends beyond the impression's replica surface laterally which defines the area between the end of the replica's surface and the cast
laser weldingthe joining of metal components through the use of heat generated with a laser beam
lingualized occlusionfirst described by S. Howard Payne, DDS. in 1941, this form of denture occlusion articulates the maxillary lingual cusps with the mandibular occlusal surfaces in centric working and nonworking mandibular positions. The term is attributed to Earl Pound. Payne SH. A posterior set-up to meet individual requirements. Dent Digest 1941; 47:20-22. Pound E. Utilizing speech to simplify a personalized denture service. J Pros thet Dent 1970; 24:586-600
low lip line 1: the lowest position of the inferior border of the upper lip when it is at rest 2: the lowest position of the superior border of the lower lip during smiling or voluntary retraction
M (top)
mandibular impressionan impression of the mandibular jaw or dental structures
mandibular nervethe third division of the trigeminal nerve which leaves the skull through the foramenovale and provides motor innervation to the muscles of mastication, to the tensorveli palatinim, the tensor tympani m, the anterior belly of the digastric m, and the mylohyoid m. It provides the general sensory innervation to the mandibular teeth and gingivae, the mucosa of the cheek and floor of the mouth, the epithelium of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, the meninges and the skin of the lower portion of the face
margin n (14c): the outer edge of a crown, inlay, onlay or other restoration. The boundary surface of a tooth preparation and/or restoration is termed the finish line or finish curve
marginal gingivathe most coronal portion of the gingiva; often used to refer to the free gingiva that forms the wall of the gingival crevice in health
maxilla n, pl maxillae (15c): the irregularly shaped bone that, with its contralateral maxilla, forms the upper jaw. It assists in the formation of the orbit, the nasal cavity, and the hard palate; it contains the maxillary teeth
maxillary impressionan impression of the maxillary jaw or dental structures maxillary tuberosity: the most distal portion of the maxillary alveolar ridge
maxillofacial prosthetics: that branch of prosthodontics concerned with the restoration and/or replacement of the stomatognathic and associated facial structures with pros theses that may or may not be removed on a regular or elective basis
maxillomandibular relationship recorda registration of any positional relationship of the mandible relative to the maxi llae. These records may be made at any vertical, horizontal, or lateral orientation. maximum intercuspation: the complete intercuspation of the opposing teeth independent of condylar position
meatus n, pl meatuses or meatus (1665): a natural body pas sage; a general term for any opening or passageway in the body median line: the center line dividing a body into the right and left
mediolateral curvein the mandibular arch, that curve, as viewed in the frontal plane, which is concave inferiorly and contacts the buccal and lingual cusps of the mandibular molars; in the maxillary arch, that curve, as viewed in the frontal plane, which is convex superiorly and contacts the lingual and buccal cusps of the maxillary molars. The curve is formed by the facial and lingual cusp tips on both sides of the dental arch
mesial adj (1803): near or toward the center line of the dental arch; toward the median sagittal plane of the face, following the curvature of the dental arch
metal basethe metallic portion of a denture base forming a part or all of the basal surface of the denture. It serves as a base for the attachment of the resin portion of the denture base and the teeth
metal insert teeth teeth containing metal cutting edges; teeth designed to contain metal cutting edges in the occlusal surface
metal stock tray 
for making primary impression
methyl methacrylate resina transparent, thermoplastic acrylic resin that is used in dentistry by mixing liquid methyl methacrylate monomer with the polymer powder. The resultant mixture forms a pliable plastic termed a dough, which is packed into a mold prior to initiation of polymerization
modeling plastic impression compound a thermoplastic dental impression material composed of wax, rosin, resins, and colorants modiolus n: the structure near the corner of the mouth where eight muscles converge which functionally separates the labial vestibule from the buccal vestibule
modulus of elasticityin metallurgy, the coefficient found by dividing the unit stress, at any point up to the proportional limit, by its corresponding unit of elongation (tension) or strain. A ratio of stress to strain. As the modulus of elasticity rises, the material becomes more rigid
mold n (13c) 1: a cavity in which a substance is shaped, as a matrix for casting metal or plastics; a negative form in which an object is cast or shaped 2: the size and shape of an artificial tooth or teeth mold chart: an illustration of the manufacturer's shapes and sizes of denture teeth
mold guide a selection of denture teeth demonstrating the molds offered by a manufacturer
monomer n (1914): a chemical compound that can undergo polymerization; any molecule that can be bound to a similar molecule to form a polymer
mucobuccal foldthe line of flexure of the mucous membrane as it passes from the mandible or maxillae to the cheek
mucogingivalsee MUCOGINGIVAL JUNCTION
mucogingival junctionthe junction of gingiva and alveolar mucosa
mucolabial fold the line of flexure of the oral mucous membrane as it passes from the maxilla or mandible to the lip
muscle hypertonicity increased contractile activity in some motor units driven by reflex arcs from receptors in the muscle and/or alpha motor neurons of the spinal cord
N (top)
nanometer n (1963): unit of length to measure the wave length of light. It is equivalent to 1x10-9 meters or 10 Angstroms. One nanometer (1 nm) = 1/1,000,000 millimeter
noble metal those metal elements which resist oxidation, tarnish and corrosion during heating, casting, or soldering as well as when used intraorally; examples include gold and platinum comp BASE METAL
nonadjustable articulatoran articulator that does not allow adjustment to replicate mandibular movements see also CAST RELATOR
nonanatomic teethartificial teeth with occlusal surfaces which are not anatomically formed. The term nonanatomic as applied to artificial posterior teeth, and especially their occlusal forms, means that such teeth are designed in accordance with mechanical principles rather than from the anatomic standpoint. Nonanatomic teeth with flat occlusal surfaces set to a flat occlusal plane were first introduced by IR. Hardy, DDS. Sears VH. Thirty years of non anatomic teeth. J Prosthet Dent 1953; 3(5):596-617. Hardy IR. Technique for use of non-anatomic acrylic posterior teeth. D Digest 1942; 48(12): 562-566
nonworking sidethat side of the mandible which moves toward the median line in a lateral excursion. The condyle on that side is referred to as the nonworking side condyle. nonworking side occlusal contacts: contacts of the teeth on the side opposite to the side toward which the mandible moves in articulation
O (top)
occlusal adj (1897): pertaining to the masticatory surfaces of the posterior teeth, prostheses, or occlusion rims
occlusal adjustment 1: any change in the occlusion intended to alter the occluding relation 2: any alteration of the occluding surfaces of the teeth or restorations see also OC CLUSAL RESHAPING
occlusal analysisan examination of the occlusion in which the interocclusal relations of mounted casts are evaluated
occlusal force the result of muscular force applied on opposing teeth; the force created by the dynamic action of the muscles during the physiologic act of mastication; the result of muscular activity applied to opposing teeth
occlusal interference any tooth contact which inhibits the remaining occluding surfaces from achieving stable and harmonious contacts
occlusal plane 1: the average plane established by the incisal and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Generally, it is not a plane but represents the planar mean of the curvature of these surfaces. 2: the surface of wax occlusion rims con toured to guide in the arrangement of denture teeth 3: a flat metallic plate used in arranging denture teeth comp to CURVE OF OCCLUSION occlusal rest: a rigid extension of a removable partial denture which contacts the occlusal surface of a tooth or restoration, the occlusal surface of which may have been prepared to receive it see REST SEAT
occlusal vertical dimensionthe distance measured between two points when the occluding members are in contact occlusal wear: loss of substance on opposing occlusal units or surfaces as the result of attrition or abrasion see FACET ABRASION
occlusion n (1645) 1: the act or process of closure or of being closed or shut off 2: the static relationship between the incising or masticating surfaces of the maxillary or mandibular teeth or tooth analogues see CENTRIC O, COM PONENTS OF O, ECCENTRIC O, LINE OF O, LINEAR O, MONOPLANE O, PATHOGENIC O, SPHERICAL FORM OF O. comp to ARTICULATION
occlusion rim occluding surfaces fabricated on interim or final denture bases for the purpose of making maxillomandibular relation records and arranging teeth called also record rim
osseointegration n [PI. Branemark, ca. 1982]: see OSSEOUS INTEGRATION
overclosure n: an occluding vertical dimension at a reduced interarch distance; an occluding vertical dimension that results in excessive interocclusal distance when the mandible is in the rest position; it results in a reduced interridge distance when the teeth are in contact
overdenture n: a removable partial or complete denture that covers and rests upon one or more remaining natural teeth, roots or/and dental implants; a prosthesis that covers and is partially supported by natural teeth, tooth roots, or/and dental implants called also overlay denture, overlay pros thesis, superimposed prosthesis
overhang n (1864): excess restorative material projecting beyond a cavity or preparation margin
P (top)
palatal plate a major connector of a removable partial denture which covers a significant portion of the palatal surface
pantograph n (1723) 1: an instrument used for copying a planar figure to any desired scale 2: in dentistry, an instrument used to graphically record in one or more planes paths of mandibular movement and to provide information for the adjustment of an articulator
pantographic tracinga graphic record of mandibular movement in three planes as registered by the stylii on the recording tables of a pantograph; tracings of mandibular movement re corded on plates in the horizontal and sagittal planes
partial denture 
a dental prosthesis which restores one or more but not all of the natural teeth and/or associated parts and which is supported in part by natural teeth, dental implant supported crowns, abutments or other fixed partial dentures and/or the mucosa; usage: a partial denture should be described as a fixed partial denture or removable partial denture based upon the patient's capability to remove or not remove the prosthesis. If the prosthesis is a fixed partial denture which can only be removed by a clinician, ie. a fixed partial denture supported by dental implants which has been retained by means of a mechanical system [ie. screw(s)], this prosthesis is a fixed partial denture. An adjective may be added to the clinical description, if needed, to designate the means of mechanical retention, ie. a screw retained fixed partial denture. Any such prosthesis luted to dental implants (in the same manner as luting a fixed partial denture to natural teeth) needs no additional designation as to its means of retention. It may be removable or fixed see BILATERAL DISTAL EXTENSION REMOVABLE PD, FIXED PD, REMOVABLE PD, UNILATERAL REMOVABLE PD
partially edentulous patient 
Patient has missed four upper anterior teeth, #’s 7, 8, 9 and 10. Patient has financial limitation and can not afford a fixed partial denture treatment. Patient would like to have a removable partial denture treatment at this point.
physiologic rest position 1: the mandibular position assumed when the head is in an upright position and the involved muscles, particularly the elevator and depressor groups, are in equilibrium in tonic contraction, and the condyles are in a neutral, unstrained position (GPT-1) 2: the position assumed by the mandible when the attached muscles are in a state of tonic equilibrium. The position is usually noted when the head is held upright (GPT-1) 3: the postural position of the mandible when an individual is resting comfortably in an upright position and the associated muscles are in a state of minimal contractual activity comp OCCLUSAL VERTICAL DIMENSION, REST VERTICAL DIMENSION
polyether adj an elastomeric impression material of ethylene oxide and tetrahydrofuron copolymers which polymerizes under the influence of an aromatic ester
polymerization n (1872): the forming of a compound by the joining together of molecules of small molecular weights into a compound of large molecular weight
polysulfide n (1849): an elastomeric impression material of polysulfide polymer (mercaptan) which cross-links under the influence of oxidizing agents such as lead peroxide
poly(vinyl siloxane) n: an addition reaction silicone elastomeric impression material of silicone polymers having terminal vinyl groups which cross-link with silane groups upon activation by a platinum or palladium salt catalyst
pontic n: an artificial tooth on a fixed partial denture that replaces a missing natural tooth, restores its functions, and usually fills the space previously filled by the natural crown
porcelain n (known in Europe, ca. 1540): a ceramic material formed of infusible elements joined by lower fusing materials. Most dental porcelains are glasses and are used in the fabrication of teeth for dentures, pontics and facings, metal ceramic restorations, crowns, inlays, onlays, and other restorations
postpalatal seal the seal area at the posterior border of a maxillary prosthesis postpalatal seal area: the soft tissue area at or beyond the junction of the hard and soft palates on which pressure, within physiologic limits, can be applied by a denture to aid in its retention
precision attachment a retainer consisting of a metal receptacle (matrix) and a closely fitting part (patrix); the matrix is usually contained within the normal or expanded contours of the crown on the abutment tooth and the patrix is attached to a pontic or the removable partial denture framework
preliminary cast a cast formed from a preliminary impression for use in diagnosis or the fabrication of an impression tray
preliminary impression a negative likeness made for the purpose of diagnosis, treatment planning or the fabrication of a tray preprosthetic surgery: surgical procedures designed to facilitate fabrication or to improve the prognosis of prosthodontic care
pressure areaa region of mucosa that is being subjected to ex essive pressure from a denture
pressure indicating paste any substance applied to a prosthesis which, when seated upon a structure, demonstrates the adaptation of the prosthesis to the structure it opposes
primary or diagnostic cast 
Examples of maxillary and mandibular
primary impression 
It is a negative form of the maxillary arch and the adjacent tissues. The primary impression can be made of either irreversible hydrocolloid or thermoplastic material.
prognathic n: a protruded position of the mandible in relation to the maxillae called also caput progeneum, exognathia, progenia, prognathia
proprioception n (1906): the reception of stimulations of sen sory nerve terminals within the tissues of the body which give information concerning movements and the position of the body; perception mediated by proprioceptors
prosthetics n, pl but sing or pl in constr (ca. 1894): the art and science of supplying artificial replacements for missing parts of the human body see also MAXILLOFACIAL P
prosthetist n: an individual involved in the construction of an artificial replacement for any part of the human body
prosthodontics n, pl but sing or pl in constr (1947): that branch of dentistry pertaining to the restoration and main tenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of the patient by the restoration of natural teeth and/or the replacement of missing teeth and contiguous oral and maxi llofacial tissues with artificial substitutes see FIXED PROSTHODONTICS, IMPLANT PROSTHODONTICS, REMOVABLE PROSTHODONTICS
protrusion n (1646): a position of the mandible anterior to centric relation see LATEROPROTRUSION
pterygoid plates broad, thin wing-shaped processes of the sphenoid bone separated by the ptergyoid fossa. The inferior end of the medial plate terminates in a long curved process or hook for the tendon of the tensor veli palatini muscle. The lateral plate gives attachment to the medial and lateral ptergyoid muscles
pterygomaxillary notch the palpable notch formed by the junction of the maxilla and the ptergyoid hamulus of the sphenoid bone
R (top)
rebase n: the laboratory process of replacing the entire denture base material on an existing prosthesis
reciprocal clasp a component of the clasp assembly specifically designed to provide reciprocation by engaging a reciprocal guiding plane; it contacts the action of the clasp during removal and insertion of a removable partial denture
record base an interim denture base employed to support the record rim material for recording maxillomandibular records
refractory cast a cast made of a material that will withstand high temperatures without disintegrating called also in vestment cast refractory investment: an investment material which can withstand the high temperatures used in soldering or casting
registration n (1566) 1: the making of a record of the jaw relationships present, or those desired, thus allowing their transfer to an articulator to assist in proper fabrication of a dental prosthesis 2: a record made of the desired maxi llomandibular relationship and used to relate casts to an articulator see MAXILLOMANDIBULAR RELATIONSHIP RECORD reline vt (1851): the procedures employed to resurface the tissue side of a denture with new base material, thus producing an accurate adaptation to the denture foundation area comp REBASE
removable partial denture any prosthesis which replaces some teeth in a partially dentate arch. It can be removed from the mouth and replaced at will
removable prosthodontics that branch of prosthodontics con cerned with the replacement of teeth and contiguous struc tures for edentulous or partially edentulous patients by ar tificial substitutes that are removable from the mouth
replica n (1852) 1: a reproduction or facsimile, especially by the makers, of an original 2: a copy or duplicate, ie. a duplicate of the surface of a component of a dental implant used to process a restoration
residual bone that component of maxillary or mandibular bone, once used to support the roots of the teeth, which remains after the teeth are lost
residual ridge the portion of the residual bone and its soft tissue covering which remains following the removal of teeth
resin n (14c) 1: any of various solid or semisolid amorphous natural organic substances which usually are transparent or translucent and brown to yellow; usually formed in plant secretions, and are soluble in organic solvents but not water; used chiefly in varnishes, inks, plastics and medicine; found in many dental impression materials 2: a broad term used to describe natural or synthetic substances that form plastic materials after polymerization. They are named according to their chemical composition, physical structure, and means for activation of polymerization see AUTOPOLYMERIZING R, COPOLYMER R. rest vertical dimension: the distance between two selected points measured when the mandible is in the physiologic rest posi tion
retentive circumferential clasp a circumferential clasp arm that is flexible and engages the infrabulge area of the abutment tooth at the terminal end of the arm
retromolar pad a mass of tissue comprised of non-keratinized mucosa located posterior to the retromolar papilla and overlying loose glandular connective tissue. This freely movable area should be differentiated from the pear shaped pad
ridge augmentationany procedure designed to enlarge or increase the size, extent or quality of deformed residual ridge
ridge lap the surface of an artificial tooth which has been shaped to accommodate the residual ridge. The tissue surface of a ridge lap design is concave and envelops both the buc cal and lingual surfaces of the residual ridge
root n (bef. 12c): the portion of the tooth apical to the cemen toenamel junction that is normally covered by cementum and is attached to the periodontal ligament and hence to the supporting bone
root form endosteal implant an endosteal dental implant shaped in the approximate form of a tooth root
rotational path removable partial denturea removable partial denture that incorporates a curved, arcuate or variable path of placement allowing one or more of the rigid components of the framework to gain access to and engage an undercut area
RPD acronym for Removable Partial Denture
RPI acronym for Rest, Proximal Plate, and I-BAR; the clasp com ponents of one type of removable partial denture clasp as sembly
S (top)
sagittal plane any vertical plane or section parallel to the median plane of the body which divides a body into right and left portions
secondary cast 
of a mandibular arch from a complete edentulous patient
secondary impression 
for a maxillary complete edentulous arch. This impression was made of a polyvinylsiloxane impression material.
second stage dental implant surgery 1: for eposteal dental im plant surgery, the term refers to the procedure involving placement of the eposteal framework fabricated after the first stage implant surgery 2: for endosteal dental implant surgery, after surgical reflection, the occlusal aspect of the dental implant body is exposed, the cover screw is removed, and either the interim or definitive abutment is placed. Following this, the investing tissues are (when needed) anastomosed
semi-adjustable articulator an articulator that allows adjust ment to replicate average mandibular movements called also Class III articulator
separating medium 1: a coating applied to a surface and serving to prevent a second surface from adhering to the first 2: a material, usually applied on an impression, to facilitate removal of the cast
shade n 1: a term employed to describe a particular hue, or variation of a primary hue, such as a greenish shade of yel low 2: a term used to describe a mixture with black (or gray) as opposed to a tint which is a mixture with white see TOOTH COLOR SELECTION spatulation v: the manipulation of material with a spatula to produce a homogenous mass
speaking spacethe space that occurs between the incisal or oc clusal surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular teeth during speech
spectrophotometer n: photometric device for the measurement of spectral transmissions, reflectance, or relative emis sions. Spectrophotometers are normally equipped with disper sion optics (prism or grating) to give a continuous spectral curve. split-cast method obs 1: a procedure for placing indexed casts on an articulator to facilitate their removal and replace ment on the instrument 2: the procedure of checking the ability of an articulator to receive or be adjusted to a maxillomandibular relation record (GPT-4)
split-cast mountinga method of mounting casts wherein the den tal cast's base is sharply grooved and keyed to the mounting ring's base. The procedure allows verifying the accuracy of the mounting, ease of removal and replacement of the casts
sprue n (1880) 1: the channel or hole through which plastic or metal is poured or cast into a gate or reservoir, and then into a mold 2: the cast metal or plastic that connects a casting to the residual sprue button
sprue former a wax, plastic or metal pattern used to form the channel or channels allowing molten metal to flow into a mold to make a casting
stability (15c) 1: that quality of maintaining a constant character or position in the presence of forces which threaten to disturb it; the quality of being stable; to stand or endure 2: the quality of a prosthesis to be firm, steady, or constant, to resist displacement by functional horizontal or rotational stresses see DENTURE S, DIMEN SIONAL S, OCCLUSAL S
sterile technique a standard surgical technique in which an aseptic area is established and maintained, including proper sterilization of instruments, drapes, gowns, gloves and the surgical area. With respect to dental implant placement, the systematic maintenance of asepsis with special emphasis upon non-contamination of instruments and implant elements throughout an implant placement procedure
sublingual crescentthe crescent-shaped area on the anterior floor of the mouth formed by the lingual wall of the man dible and the adjacent sublingual fold. It is the area of the anterior alveolingual sulcus
sublingual foldthe crescent-shaped area on the floor of the mouth following the inner wall of the mandible and tapering toward the molar regions. It is formed by the sublingual gland and submaxillary duct
sublingual fossa a smooth depression on the lingual surface of the body of the mandible near the midline, above the mylohyoid line and below the alveolus. This fossa accom modates part of the sublingual gland
subperiosteal dental implant 
an eposteal dental implant that is placed beneath the periosteum and overlying the bony cortex
support 1 n (14c): the foundation area upon which a dental pros thesis rests
support 2 vt (14c): to hold up or serve as a foundation or prop for
surgical template 1: a thin, transparent form duplicating the tissue surface of an immediate denture and used as a guide for surgically shaping the alveolar process 2: a guide used to assist in proper surgical placement and angulation of dental implants
surface tensiona property of liquids in which the exposed sur face tends to contract to the smallest possible area, as in the spherical formation of drops; this is a phenomenon at tributed to the attractive forces, or cohesion, between the molecules of the liquid
survey v 1: to examine as to condition, value or situation; to appraise 2: to determine the form and position of a given entity by means of taking linear and angular measurements 3: to inspect or scrutinize 4: the procedure of locating and delineating the contour and position of the abutment teeth and associated structures before designing a removable par tial denture (GPT-1) surveyed, surveying
survey line: a line produced on a cast by a surveyor marking the greatest prominence of contour in relation to the planned path of placement of a restoration
surveyor n (15c): a paralleling instrument used in construction of a prosthesis to locate and delineate the contours and relative positions of abutment teeth and associated struc tures
T (top)
temporomandibular joint 1: the articulation between the temporal bone and the mandible. It is a diarthrodial, bilateral ginglymus arthrodial joint. 2: the articulation of the con dylar process of the mandible and the interarticular disk with the mandibular fossa of the squamous portion of the temporal bone; a diarthrodial, sliding hinge (ginglymus) joint. Movement in the upper joint compartment is mostly translational while that in the lower joint compartment is mostly rotational. The joint connects the mandibular con dyle to the articular fossa of the temporal bone with the temporomandibular disc interposed
tinfoil n (15c) 1: paper thin metal sheeting usually of a tin lead alloy or aluminum 2: a base-metal foil used as a separating material between the cast and denture base material during flasking and polymerizing
tinted denture base a denture base with coloring that simulates the color and shading of natural oral tissues
tissue displaceability 1: the quality of oral tissues which per mits them to be placed in other than a relaxed position 2: the degree to which tissues permit displacement
tooth n, pl teeth (bef. 12c): any hard calcified structure in the alveolar processes of the maxilla or mandible used for mas tication of food, or a similar structure see ANATOMIC T, CUSPLESS T, METAL INSERT T, NONANATOMIC T, REVERSE AR TICULATION T, TUBE T, ZERO-DEGREE T
tooth arrangement1: the placement of teeth on a denture with definite objectives in mind 2: the placement of teeth on trial bases see ANTERIOR TOOTH ARRANGEMENT
tooth color selectionthe determination of the color and other attributes of appearance of an artificial tooth or set of teeth for a given individual tooth form: the characteristics of the curves, lines, angles, and contours of various teeth which permit their identification and differentiation see ANTERIOR TF, POSTERIOR TF
tooth selectionthe selection of a tooth or teeth of a shape, size and color to harmonize with the individual characteris tics of a patient
tooth supported 
a term used to describe a prosthesis or part of a prosthesis which depends entirely upon the natural teeth for support. This patient presents with two areas of missing teeth, and each area has natural tooth anterior and posterior to it
totally edentulous patient 
a patiant with all of their teeth missing.
toxicity n: the adverse reactions (dose response time relationships) of tissues to selected foreign substances resulting in unacceptable in-vivo interactions. The toxicity can be at the local or systemic level depending upon the amount, rate of release and specific type of substance available to the tissues
transitional denture: a removable partial denture serving as a interim prosthesis to which artificial teeth will be added as natural teeth are lost and which will be replaced after postextraction tissue changes have occurred. A transitional denture may become an interim complete denture when all of the natural teeth have been removed from the dental arch called also transitional partial denture
translucency n (1611): having the appearance between complete opacity and complete transparency; partially opaque
transosteal dental implant 1: a dental implant that penetrates both cortical plates and passes through the full thickness of the alveolar bone 2: a dental implant composed of a metal plate with retentive pins to hold it against the inferior border of the mandible which support transosteal pins that penetrate through the full thickness of the mandible and pass into the mouth in the parasymphyseal region called also staple bone plant, mandibular staple implant, transmandibular implant
trial base a material or device representing the base of a den ture. It is used for making maxillomandibular relationship records and for the arrangement of teeth
trial denture a preliminary arrangement of denture teeth that has been prepared for placement into the patient's mouth in order to evaluate esthetics and maxillo-mandibular relation ships
tricalcium phosphate an inorganic particulate or solid form of relatively biodegradable ceramic which is used as a scaffold for bone regeneration. It may be used as a matrix for new bone growth
tripod markingthose marks or lines drawn on a cast in a single plane perpendicular to the survey rod to assist with repositioning the cast on a dental surveyor in a previously defined orientation
tripodization n: an occlusal scheme characterized by a cusp to fossa relationship in which there are three points of contact about the cusp and opposing fossa with no contact on the cusp tip
typodent a replica of the natural dentition and alveolar mucosa, set to average condylar motions, used in training students in dental care
U (top)
UCLA abutment substand a colloquial term used to describe a dental crown which is attached directly to the implant body by means of a screw without an intervening abutment
undercut n (1859) 1: that portion of the surface of an object which is below the height of contour in relationship to the path of placement 2: the contour of a cross sectional por tion of a residual ridge or dental arch which prevents the insertion of a prosthesis 3: any irregularity in the wall of a prepared tooth which prevents the withdrawal or seating of a wax pattern or casting unilateral removable partial denture: a removable denture restor ing lost or missing teeth on one side of the arch only
upper custom tray 
for a complete edentulous patient. This tray is made of an autopolymerizing polymethylmethacrylate tray material
upright adj: the movement of a tooth into an erect or normal position
V (top)
vacuum mixinga method of mixing a material such as plaster of Paris or casting investment under subatmospheric pressure
vertical overlap 1: the distance teeth lap over their an tagonists as measured vertically; especially the distance the maxillary incisal edges extend below those of the man dibular teeth. It may also be used to describe the vertical relations of opposing cusps. 2: the vertical relationship of the incisal edges of the maxillary incisors to the man dibular incisors when the teeth are in maximum intercuspa tion
vestibule n (ca. 1728) 1: any of various bony cavities, especially when serving as or resembling an entrance to another 2:that portion of the oral cavity which is bounded on the medial side by the teeth, gingiva, and alveolar ridge or the residual ridge, and on the lateral side by the lips and cheeks see BUCCAL V, LABIAL V
vestibuloplasty n: a surgical procedure designed to restore alveolar ridge height by lowering muscles attaching to the buccal, labial, and lingual aspects of the jaws
vibrating line an imaginary line across the posterior part of the palate marking the division between the movable and immovable tissues of the soft palate. This can be identified when the movable tissues are functioning
W (top)
wax elimination the removal of wax from a mold, usually by heat
wear facet any wear line or plane on a tooth surface caused by attrition
Wolff's Law [Julius Wolff, German anatomist, 1836-1902]: eponym for a uniform or constant fact or principle, more specifically, that a bone, either normal or abnormal, will develop the structure most suited to resist those forces acting upon it
working side contacts contacts of teeth made on the side of the articulation toward which the mandible is moved during working movements
X (top)
xenogenic graft a graft from one species to another species called also heterologous graft
