DICTIONARY OF TERMS
A - C | D - I | J - N | O - R | S - Z
L
Lingual: The tooth surface next to your tongue, or things mounted on the tooth surfaces next to your tongue.
Lingual appliances: An orthodontic appliance fixed to the inside of your teeth, i.e. – lingual appliances are attached to the part of your teeth next to your tongue.
M
Malocclusion: Poor positioning of your teeth.
Class I Malocclusion: A malocclusion where your bite is okay (your top teeth line up with your bottom teeth), but your teeth may still be crooked, crowded, or turned.
Class II Malocclusion: A malocclusion where your upper teeth stick out past your lower teeth. This is also called an "overbite" or "buck teeth".
Class III Malocclusion: A malocclusion where your lower teeth stick out past your upper teeth. This is also called an "underbite".
Mandible: Your lower jaw.
Mandibular: Pertaining to your lower jaw.
Maxilla: Your upper jaw.
Maxillary: Pertaining to your upper jaw.
Midline: A plane through the very center of your mouth, perpendicular to your nose.
Mixed dentition: The situation when both deciduous and permanent teeth are present.
Mouthguard: A device that is used to protect your mouth from injury when you are participating in sports. The use of a mouthguard is especially important for orthodontic patients to help prevent injuries.
N
Nickel Titanium or (NiTi): An especially strong orthodontic wire, which allows for rapid tooth movement.
