Embrasure
Embrasure
Embrasure (/ɛmˈbreɪʒər/; from French embrasure, "opening") is a term used in dentistry to describe the triangular space in a dental arch between one tooth and its neighboring tooth. The space is widest between the contact area of the two teeth and the gingiva. Embrasures allow for the passage of food around the teeth, which aids in the self-cleaning process of the teeth and gums.
Etymology
The term "embrasure" is derived from the French word embrasure, which means "opening". In the context of dentistry, it refers to the opening or gap between two adjacent teeth.
Types of Embrasures
There are four types of embrasures in dentistry:
1. Incisal or occlusal embrasures: These are located incisally in anterior teeth and occlusally in posterior teeth. 2. Cervical or gingival embrasures: These are located cervically and are always filled with gingiva in a healthy oral cavity. 3. Labial or buccal embrasures: These are located on the labial or buccal side of the teeth. 4. Lingual or palatal embrasures: These are located on the lingual or palatal side of the teeth.
Importance of Embrasures
Embrasures play a significant role in maintaining oral health. They allow for the passage of food around the teeth, which aids in the self-cleaning process of the teeth and gums. Embrasures also distribute the forces of mastication, which helps to protect the periodontium from trauma.
Related Terms
- Dental Arch: The curved structure formed by the teeth in their normal positions, or by the residual ridge after the loss of the teeth.
- Gingiva: The part of the oral mucosa that covers the alveolar processes of the jaws and surrounds the necks of the teeth.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Embrasure
- Wikipedia's article - Embrasure
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski