Tooth Anatomy and Conditions

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and characteristics related to tooth anatomy and dental conditions.

What is the anatomic crown of a tooth?

The area above the cementoenamel junction (CEJ).

What is the clinical crown of a tooth?

Any part of the tooth visible in the mouth.

What does the term 'apex' refer to in tooth anatomy?

The end of the root.

What is a furcation in dental anatomy?

The anatomical area of a multirooted tooth where the roots divide.

What is dentin?

A calcified tissue around the pulp that comprises approximately 70% minerals.

What is the role of the pulp in a tooth?

It contains the nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatics, making it the innermost part of the tooth.

What are the primary functions of incisors?

To bite and cut food.

How does enamel composition differ between primary and permanent teeth?

The enamel of primary teeth is softer and thinner than that of permanent teeth.

What does microdontia refer to in dental terms?

One or more teeth in the dentition that are smaller than normal.

What characterizes dentinogenesis imperfecta?

Teeth that are translucent and discolored, most often blue-grey or yellow-brown.

What causes amelogenesis imperfecta?

A mutation in genes that prevents normal development of the enamel layer.

What is the definition of anodontia?

Congenital lack of all primary or permanent teeth.

What are supernumerary teeth?

Extra teeth found in the dental arches that are usually smaller and do not erupt.

What is a talon cusp?

An accessory cusp located in the area of the cingulum of a maxillary or mandibular permanent incisor.

What is the Curve of Spee?

An anatomic curvature forming a line similar to an upward smile line seen from the buccal aspect.

What is diastema?

A space between two adjacent teeth.

What happens during the primary dentition period?

Begins with the eruption of primary mandibular central incisors, lasts from 6 months to 6 years.

What is the defining characteristic of teeth affected by enamel hypoplasia?

Incomplete development of the enamel resulting in dark spots or bands.

What is dentin dysplasia?

Disturbance of dentin formed in the tooth structure, can be hereditary or non-hereditary.

What is meant by 'exogenous stain'?

A stain that occurs after tooth eruption.

What is intrinsic stain?

A stain located within the tooth that cannot be removed by scaling or polishing.

What is the first permanent tooth to erupt in children?

The mandibular first molar.