Dr Dental Dental Insurance – Understanding some terms that define locations on and around the teeth.
Sometimes, dentists will use terms we may need to learn or understand when discussing one or more of our teeth. Several terms are used to help define locations on and around the teeth, which are often used to refer to specific areas of the mouth when describing conditions there. Here is a list of some of those terms:
- Posterior: Towards the back of the mouth.
- Anterior: Towards the front of the mouth
- Mesial: Towards the midline of the mouth.
- Distal: Away from the midline of the mouth
- Buccal: Any area on the cheek side of the teeth
- Lingual: Any area on the tongue side of the teeth
- Facial: Any area on the cheek or lip side of the teeth. Facial is often used interchangeably with buccal but mainly in the anterior portion of the mouth.
- Palatal: Any area on the tongue side of the maxillary teeth
- Occlusal: Any area on the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
- Incisal: Any area on the biting surfaces of the front teeth.
Knowing and understanding these terms can help you when talking to your dentist. However, feel free to ask questions if you do not understand what your dentist is saying. When it comes to your dental care and the services your dentist provides, communication is a crucial factor in ensuring you are receiving the care you need.