Geometric and Directional Concepts for Dental Hygiene (DHY 111)

Flashcards covering geometric terms, planes, units, and directional terms from the notes.

Long Axis

An imaginary axis (line) that runs through the center of the tooth.

90-degree angle

A right angle; an angle that measures 90 degrees.

45-degree angle

An angle that measures 45 degrees.

Parallel

Two lines that never intersect.

Perpendicular

Two lines that intersect at 90 degrees.

Vertical plane

A plane that runs vertically (up and down).

Horizontal plane

A plane that runs horizontally (side to side).

Oblique

A diagonal line or plane (not vertical or horizontal).

Circumferential

Relating to the circumference; surrounding a tooth.

Millimeter (mm)

The unit of measurement used in dentistry; abbreviated as mm.

Cross Section

To cut or divide an object in half; reveals the object's shape.

Sickle Scaler

A dental instrument used to remove calculus from teeth (typically supragingival).

Universal Curet

A curet designed to be used on all tooth surfaces.

Area-Specific Curet

A curet designed for specific tooth surfaces or areas.

Apical

Toward the apex (root tip) of the tooth.

Coronal

Toward the crown of the tooth.

Quadrants

The mouth divided into four sections for description or treatment.

Sextants

The mouth divided into six sections.

Midline

The imaginary line that divides the mouth into left and right halves.

Surfaces Away

Tooth surfaces oriented away from the operator during instrumentation.

Surfaces Toward

Tooth surfaces oriented toward the operator during instrumentation.