GEMINATION: Teeth that are structurally united and have developed from the same tooth germ.

GENE: A segment of a DNA molecule coded for the synthesis of a single polypeptide; a unit of genetic information.

GENOME: The complete chromosomal set derived from one parent.

GENOTYPE: The genetic composition of an individual or defined population.

GEOGRAPHIC TONGUE (Migratory Glossitis): A condition characterized by chronic, superficial, and circumscribed desquamation of the filiform papillae. The areas of desquamation change continuously.

GERMICIDE: An agent that kills microorganisms.

GINGIVA: The fibrous investing tissue, covered by keratinized epithelium, that immediately surrounds a tooth and is contiguous with its periodontal ligament and with the mucosal tissues of the mouth.

AT TACHED G.: The portion of the gingiva that is firm, dense, stippled, and tightly bound to the underlying periosteum, tooth, and bone.

FREE G.: That part of the gingiva that surrounds the tooth and is not directly attached to the tooth surface.

MARGINAL G.: The most coronal portion of the gingiva. Often used to refer to the free gingiva that forms the wall of the gingival crevice in health.

PAPILLARY G.: See: Gingival Papilla.

GINGIVAL: Pertaining to the gingiva.

G. CLEFT: See: Cleft, Gingival.

G. COL: See: Col.

G. CORIUM: The connective tissue of the gingiva.

G. CRAT ER: A saucer-shaped defect of the interproximal gingiva.

G. CREST: See: Crest.

G. CREVICE (G. Sulcus): The shallow fissurebetween the marginal gingiva and the enamel or cementum.

G. CUFF: That portion of the gingiva that overlies the junctional epithelium.

G. CURETTAGE: See: Curettage, Gingival.

GINGIVAL DISEASES: The pattern of observable signs and symptoms of different disease entities that are localized to the gingiva.

G. D. OF FUNGAL ORIGIN: Gingival manifestations of fungal infections are characterized by white, red, or ulcerative lesions associated with several predisposing conditions.

G. D. OF SPECIFIC BACTERIAL ORIGIN: Conditions induced by exogenous bacterial infection other than common components of dental plaque.

G. D. OF VIRAL ORIGIN: Acute manifestations of viral infections of the oral mucosa, characterized by redness and multiple vesicles that easily rupture to form painful ulcers affecting the gingiva. They may be accompanied by fever, malaise, and regional lymphadenopathy.

G. ENLARGEMENT: An overgrowth or increase in size of the gingiva.

DRUG-INFLUENCED G. E.: Gingival enlargement resulting in whole or in part from systemic drug use.

G. EXUDAT E: An exudate that escapes into the oral cavity via the gingival crevice.

G. FEST OON: See: Festoons, Gingival.

G. FIBEROT OMY: A circumferential crevicular incision through all gingival and periodontal fibers coronal to the crest of the alveolar bone.

G. FIBROMAT OSIS: A diffuse, fibrous overgrowth of the gingiva; can be idiopathic, hereditary, or associated with drug administration.

HEREDITARY G. F.: A genetically derived fibrotic gingival enlargement.

G. FLUID: Tissue fluid that seeps through the crevicular and junctional epithelium. It is increased in the presence of inflammation.

G. GROOVE: A shallow, V-shaped groove or indentation that is closely associated with the apical extent of free gingiva and runs parallel to the margin of the gingiva. The frequency of its occurrence varies widely.

G. HYPERPLASIA : An enlargement of the gingiva due to an increase in the number of cells.

G. HYPERTROPHY: An enlargement of the gingiva due to an increase in the size of cells.

G. MARGIN: See: Gingiva, Marginal.

G. PAPILLA : That portion of the gingiva that occupies the interproximal spaces. The interdental extension of the gingiva.

G. POCKET: A pathologically deepened gingival crevice that does not involve loss of connective tissue attachment. Frequently observed when there is gingival enlargement.

G. RECESSION: See: Recession, Gingival.

G. SULCUS : See: Gingival Crevice.

GINGIVECTOMY: The excision of a portion of the gingiva; usually performed to reduce the soft tissue wall of a periodontal pocket.

GINGIVITIS: Inflammation of the gingiva.

AS CORBIC ACID DEFICIENCY G.: Inflammatory response of the gingiva to plaque aggravated by chronically low ascorbic acid levels.

DESQUAMATIVE G.: A non-specific term denoting chronic, diffuse inflammation of the gingiva with sloughing of the surface epithelium. Can be found in several mucosal diseases.

DIABETES -ASSOCIATED G.: Inflammatory response of the gingiva to plaque aggravated by poorly controlled plasma glucose levels.

DRUG-INFLUENCED G.: Pronounced inflammatory response of the gingiva to plaque and drug(s).

ERUPTIVE G.: Inflammation accompanying eruption of the teeth.

HORMONA L G.: A generic term describing the changes in color, size, shape, or function of gingiva resulting from the influence of hormones.

HYPERPLASTIC G.: Characterized by markedly enlarged and proliferative margins and interdental papillae.

LEUKEMIA-ASSOCIATED G.: Pronounced inflammatory response of the gingiva to plaque resulting in increased bleeding and enlargement subsequent to leukemia. Enlargement may be partially due to leukemic cell infiltration of the gingiva.

MARGINA L G.: Inflammation limited to the gingiva adjacent to the tooth surface.

MENS TRUA L-CYCLE ASSOCIATED G.: Pronounced inflammatory response of gingiva to plaque and hormones immediately prior to ovulation.

NECROTIZING ULCERATIVE G (NUG): An infection characterized by gingival necrosis presenting as “punched out” papillae, with gingival bleeding and pain. Fetid breath and pseudomembrane formation may be secondary diagnostic features. Fusiform bacteria, Prevotella intermedia, and spirochetes have been associated with the lesion. Predisposing factors may include stress, poor diet, smoking, and HIV infection. See also: Periodontitis, Necrotizing Ulcerative.

NON-PLAQUE-INDUCED G.: Gingival inflammation having an etiology other than dental plaque, such as gingival diseases of specific bacterial, viral, fungal, or genetic origin, due to systemic conditions, trauma, foreign body reactions, or other causes.

ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE-ASSOCIATED G.: Pronounced inflammatory response of the gingiva to plaque and oral contraceptives.

PLAQUE-INDUCED G.: Gingival inflammation resulting from dental plaque.

PREGNANCY-ASSOCIATED G.: Pronounced inflammatory response of the gingiva to dental plaque and hormones usually occurring during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.

PUBERTY-ASSOCIATED G.: Pronounced inflammatory response of gingiva to dental plaque and hormones during the circumpubert; period.

GINGIVOPLASTY: A surgical reshaping of the gingiva.

GINGIVOSIS: Archaic term for desquamative gingivitis.

GINGIVOSTOMATITIS: Inflammation affecting both the gingiva and the oral mucosa.

HERPETIC G.: An infection of the oral soft tissues caused by the herpes simplex virus and characterized by redness, formation of multiple vesicles, painful ulcers, fever, and lymphadenopathy.

GLOSSALGIA: Pain associated with the tongue.

GLOSSITIS, MIGRATORY: See: Geographic Tongue.

GLOSSODY NIA: Painful or burning tongue.

GLUCOCORTI COID: A group of C21 steroid hormones (cortisol, etc.) that affect carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism; secreted from the adrenal cortex; used in treatment of desquamative gingival lesions in the oral cavity; a corticosteroid.

GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST (GTT): A laboratory test that indicates the patient’s capacity to regulate blood sugar level following the ingestion of carbohydrate. One of the most reliable laboratory tests for detection of diabetes mellitus.

GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN: A polysaccharide chain consisting of a hexosamine alternating with another carbohydrate residue; a component of proteoglycans.

GRAFT: I. Any tissue or organ used for implantation or transplantation. 2. A piece of living tissue placed in contact with injured tissue to repair a defect or supply a deficiency. 3. To induce union between normally separate tissues.

ALLOGRAFT: A graft between genetically dissimilar members of the same species.

ALLOPLAST: A synthetic graft or inert foreign body implanted into tissue. See: Implant, Oral.

AUTOGENOUS G.: See: Graft, Autograft.

AUTOGENOUS BONE G.: An osseous autograft.

AUTOGRAFT: Tissue transferred from one position to another within the same individual.

DOUBLE PAPILLA PEDICLE G.: See: Flap, Double Papilla Pedicle.

HETEROGRAFT: A graft taken from a donor of another species.

HOMOGRAFT: See: Allograft.

ILIAC G.: Bone graft material obtained from the iliac crest.

ISOGRAFT: A graft between genetically identical individuals, usually between identical twins.

PAPILLARY PEDICLE G.: See: Flap, Papillary Pedicle.

PEDICLE G.: See: Flap, Pedicle.

SOFT TISSUE (Gingival) G.: An autogenous graft of masticatory mucosa or collagenous tissue completely or partially detached from its original site and placed in a prepared recipient bed.

XENOGRAFT: A heterograft.

GRAM-NEGATI VE: Pertaining to bacteria that counterstain pale red with Gram stain. These bacteria have a lipopolysaccharide (endotoxin) layer exterior to a thin peptidoglycan layer in their cell walls.

GRAM-POSITIVE: Pertaining to bacteria that stain deep purple with Gram stain. These bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer but no lipopolysaccharide in their cell walls.

GRAM STA IN: A method for classifying bacteria into two groups on the basis of their cell wall composition, which causes them to stain either purple (positive) or pale red (negative).

GRANULATI ON TI SSUE: Healing tissue that consists of fibroblasts, capillary buds, inflammatory cells, and edema.

GRANULOC YTOPENI A : See: Agranulocytosis.

GRANULOMA : A reactive nodule consisting of modified macrophages resembling epithelial cells surrounded by a rim of mononuclear cells, usually lymphocytes, and often containing giant cells.

APICAL G.: Circumscribed granulomatous tissue adjacent to the apex of a tooth.

CENTRAL GIANT CELL G.: Usually restricted to the jaw bones, this lytic lesion displays loose fibrillar connective tissue, numerous capillaries, and multinuclear giant cells; a histologic appearance similar to the bony lesions of hyperparathyroidism.

PERIPHERAL GIANT CELL G.: Considered an unusual proliferative response of the tissues to injury, this lesion always occurs on the gingiva or alveolar mucosa. Histologically, it is a non-encapsulated mass of delicate connective tissue cells, numerous capillaries, and multinucleated giant cells.

PYOGENIC G.: Localized, painless protuberant, exophytic gingival mass that is attached by a sessile or pedunculated base from the gingival margin or more commonly from an interproximal space.

PREGNANCY-ASSOCIATED P. G.: A pyogenic granuloma resulting from dental plaque and hormones during pregnancy.

GRANULOMATOUS TISSUE: A distinctive morphologic pattern of inflammation consisting of histiocytes that have been transformed into epitheloid cells that are surrounded by mononuclear cells, usually lymphocytes. Seen in the granulomatous diseases, such as tuberculosis, syphilis, sarcoidosis, and leprosy.

GRINDING, SELECTIVE: Alteration of the occlusal forms of teeth to improve occlusal function and to decrease or redirect occlusal forces to the teeth.

GROOVE, PAL ATAL : A developmental, anomalous groove usually found on the palatal aspect of maxillary central and lateral incisors.

GROU P FUNCTION: Multiple contacts between the maxillary and mandibular teeth in lateral movements on the working side, where by simultaneous contacts of several teeth act as a group to distribute occlusal forces.

GROWTH FACTORS: A diverse group of polypeptides that have important roles in regulation of growth and development of a variety of organs.

GUARD: See: Occlusal Guard.

GUIDANCE: The process of controlling or directing an object on a predetermined course or track.

CANINE G.: Contact guidance provided by canine teeth in lateral mandibular movements. See: Canine Protection.

CONDYLAR G.: The path the condyles travel during normal mandibular movement, measured in degrees relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane.

INCISAL G.: The influence on mandibular movements exerted by the palatal surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth.

GUIDED BONE REGENERATION: See: Regeneration, Guided Tissue.

GUIDED TISSUE AUGMEN TATION: See: Regeneration, Guided Tissue.

GUIDED TISSUE REGENERATION: See: Regeneration, Guided Tissue.

DEBRIDEMENT: The removal of inflamed, devitalized, or contaminated tissue or foreign material from or adjacent to a lesion.

DEBRIS: An accumulation of foreign material on the teeth and adjacent structures.

DECALCIFICATION: The removal of calcium salts from a bone or tooth.

DECAY: The gradual decomposition of dead organic matter. See: Caries.

DECORTICATION: Removal of cortical bone. Often used to describe multiple penetrations of the cortical surface of an intrabony defect.

DEFECT: See: Periodontal Bony Defects.

DEFLECTIVE OCCLUSAL CONTACT: A condition of tooth contact that diverts the mandible from a normal path of closure. See: Occlusal Disharmony.

DEMINERALIZATION: Decalcification; loss of mineral salts.

DENATURANT: A chemical that denatures or disrupts the three-dimensional structure of proteins causing them to lose their tertiary structure.

DENS IN DENTE: A developmental abnormality in tooth formation resulting from invagination of the epithelium associated with coronal development into the area that was destined to become the pulp space.

Gives the radiographic appearance of a “tooth within a tooth.”

DENTAL DYSFUNCTION: Abnormal functioning of dental structures.

DENTAL DYSPLASIA: See: Dysplasia, Dentinal.

DENTAL HISTORY: A complete record of all relevant aspects of an individual’s oral and general health.

DENTAL HYGIENIST: A licensed dental auxiliary who is both an oral health educator and clinician and who uses preventive, educational, and nonsurgical therapeutic methods to control oral disease.

DENTAL PROPHYLA XIS: See: Prophylaxis, Oral.

DENTICLE (Pulp Stone): A calcified mass of dentin, which may be free within the pulp, attached to the pulpal wall, or embedded in the dentin.

DENTIFRICE: A preparation intended to clean and polish the teeth. Active ingredients to prevent caries and plaque accumulation or to desensitize teeth may be included.

DENTIN: The chief substance or tissue forming the body of the teeth. It surrounds the pulp and is covered by coronal enamel and radicular cementum.

REPARATIVE D.: Deposition of dentin in response to pulpal insult. Also called irregular dentin.

SECONDARY D.: Dentin deposited after root end formation is complete.

DENTINAL HYPERSENSITIVITY: The short, exaggerated, painful response elicited when exposed dentin is subjected to certain thermal, mechanical, or chemical stimuli. See: Pulpitis.

DENTITION: The natural teeth as considered collectively in the dental arches; may be primary, permanent, or mixed.

DENTULOUS: A condition in which natural teeth are present in the mouth.

DENTURE: An artificial substitute for natural teeth. A complete denture replaces all of the teeth in an arch. See: Prosthesis.

FIXED PARTIAL D.: A replacement of one or more missing teeth that cannot be readily removed by the patient or dentist; it is fixed or bonded to natural teeth, roots, or implants which furnish the primary support to the prosthesis.

OVERDENTURE: Complete or partial removable denture supported by soft tissue and retained roots or implants to provide stability and reduce ridge resorption.

REMOVABLE PARTIAL D.: A dental prosthesis that artificially supplies teeth or other associated structures in a partially edentulous jaw and can be removed and replaced at will.

DENUDATION: The act or process of removing the covering from any surface. In periodontics, often refers to removal of all soft tissue overlying the bone.

DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID (DNA): A nucleic acid that constitutes the genetic material of all cellular organisms and the DNA viruses.

DESENSITIZE: To diminish or abolish sensation of pain or sensitivity, as in dentin.

DESQUAMATION: Exfoliation; the process of shedding surface epithelium.

DETOXICANT: A chemical that degrades a toxic agent.

DIABETES MELLITUS: A chronic syndrome of impaired carbohydrate, protein, and fCl! metabolism secondary to insufficient secretion of insulin or to target tissue insulin resistance. Considered to be a modifying or accelerating factor in periodontal diseases. Data also suggest that periodontal diseases also influence the course of diabetes (e.g., increase glycated hemoglobin).

DIAGNOSE: To recognize or determine the nature of a disease or abnormal state or condition by study and consideration of the signs and symptoms and their manifestation.

DIAGNOSIS: 1. The art and science of detecting and distinguishing deviations from health and the cause and nature thereof. 2. The determination of the nature, location, and causes of a disease or disorder.

CLINICAL D.: Determination of a condition based on history and physical examination without use of laboratory or microscopic tests.

LABORATORY D.: Diagnosis based on the examination of fluids or tissues in the laboratory.

PERIODONTAL D.: Recognizing a departure from health in the periodontium and distinguishing one disease, disease categorization, or etiology from another. Based on information obtained from the medical and dental histories, clinical and radiographic examination of the patient, and laboratory findings.

DIAGNOSTIC CAST: See: Cast.

DIAPEDESIS: The outward passage of cells through intact blood vessels.

DIASTEMA: A space between two adjacent teeth in a dental arch.

DIAZEPAM: A benzodiazepine anxiolytic having antianxiety, sedativ -hypnotic, amnesic, anticonvulsant, skeletal muscle relaxant, and drug

dependence properties.

DIETARY ANALYSIS: The evaluation of a diet on the basis of its content, quality, and nutrients in order to determine any imbalance or deficiency that might contribute to a disease process.

DIETARY GUIDANCE: Counseling on food selection and dietary habits.

DILACERATION: I. A tearing apart. 2. A distortion of the root or crown of a tooth resulting from an injury during tooth development. Through common usage, the term now includes teeth with sharply angulated and deformed roots.

DISC, ARTICULAR: A fibrous connective tissue structure separating the joint cavities of the temporomandibular joint; also termed the meniscus.

DISCLOSANT: A dye (tablet or solution) used to stain dental plaque. Used primarily as an aid in oral hygiene instruction.

DISEASE: A pathologic condition that presents a group of clinical signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings peculiar to it and setting the condition apart

as an abnormal entity differing from normal or other

pathologic conditions.

LOCAL CONTRIBUTING FACTOR: A local feature that may influence the presentation of the disease, such as an overhanging restoration.

DISINFECTANT: An agent that destroys or inhibits the activity of disease-producing or other harmful microorganisms, but usually does not destroy

bacterial spores; commonly refers to chemical agents applied to inanimate objects.

DISOCCLUDE: To cause loss of contact between opposing teeth as a result of tooth guidance, occlusal interferences, or occlusal adjustment.

DISTAL WEDGE: A periodontal surgical procedure for removal of excessive soft tissue distal to a terminal tooth in an arch. See: Proximal Wedge.

DISTOCCLUSION: The abnormal posterior or distal relationship of the mandibular to the maxillary teeth as in an Angle Class II occlusion.

DISUSE ATROPHY: See: Atrophy, Disuse.

DIVERGENCE: Separation or spreading apart from a common center, base, or root.

DNA: See: Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

DOCUMENTATION, PERIODONTAL: Diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative records of a patient.

DONOR SITE: An area of the body from which a graft is taken. Examples are skin, masticatory mucosa, and bone.

DRESSING, SURGIC AL: See: Periodontal Dressing.

DRUG: Any chemical that alters the physiologic processes of living systems.

DRUG AGONIST: Chemicals that react with a receptor and initiate a cellular reaction.

DRUG ANTAGONIST: Chemicals that prevent reaction of a drug agonist with its receptor and inhibit.

DRUG EFFIC ACY: The ability of a chemical to produce a biological effect.

DRUG POTENCY: The power of a chemical to produce an effect that is contingent upon the concentration of the chemical.

DRY SOCKET: See: Socket, Dry.

DYSFUNCTION: Disturbance, impairment, or abnormality of the function of cells or an organ.

DYSKINESIA: Difficulty in performing voluntary movements.

DYSOSTOSIS: Imperfect ossification.

DYSPHAGI A: Difficulty in swallowing.

DYSPLASIA: Abnormality of development; in pathology, alteration in size, shape, and organization of cells.

DENTINAL D.: A hereditary disorder affecting the teeth and characterized by abnormal dentin, defective root formation, and a tendency for periapical

pathosis.

ECTODERMAL D.: An inherited condition characterized by fine, scanty, blond hair; depressed bridge of the nose; and a partial or complete absence of sweat glands and teeth.

PERIAPICAL CEMENTAL D. (Cementoma): A process of unknown origin. in which the periapical bone of vital teeth is replaced first by a fibrous

type of connective tissue, and then by an osseocementoid tissue. During its early stages this abnormality appears radiolucent and with

time the center becomes opaque. It is classified as an odontogenic tumor.

DYSTROPHY, PERIODONTAL: Changes resulting from mechanical, circulatory, degenerative, atrophic, or hypertrophic influences that interfere

with the normal physiologic processes of the periodontium.

FACET: A flattened or worn spot on the surface of a hard body, as on a bone or a tooth.

FACTITIOUS: I. Pertaining to a state or situation produced by other than natural means. 2. Self-inflicted.

FACULTATIVE: I. Voluntary; possessing the power to do or not to do a thing. 2. Capable of existing under different conditions, as a microorganism that can exist in either aerobic or anaerobic conditions.

FAMILI AL: Occurring in members of the same family, as in a familial disease. See: Congenital.

FENESTRATE: To pierce with one or more openings.

FENESTRATION: A window-like aperture or opening, such as may be found in the alveolar bone over the root of a tooth.

FESTOONS, GINGIVAL: The contours of the gingiva and oral mucosa over the roots of the teeth

that tend to follow the cervical lines. These are prominent in the presence of a thin alveolar process.

FETOR ORIS: Foul, offensive odor from the oral cavity. See: Halitosis.

FIBER: A filament or thread. In periodontics the term usually refers to collagenous or elastic connective tissue fibers.

ALV EOGINGIVAL F.: Collagenous fibers that radiate from the bone of the alveolar crest into the lamina propria of the free and attached gingiva.

CIRCULAR F.: Collagenous fiber bundles within the gingiva that encircle the tooth in a ring-like fashion.

DENTOGINGIVAL F.: Numerous collagenous fibers that extend from cervical cementum to the lamina propria of the free and attached gingiva.

DENTOPERIOSTEAL F.: Fibers running from the cementum over the periosteum of the outer cortical plates of the alveolar process where they insert into the alveolar process or muscle in the vestibule of the floor of the mouth.

GINGIVAL F.: See: Alveogingival F. and Dentogingival F.

OXYTALAN F.: Fibers found in all connective tissue structures of the periodontium that appear to consist of thin, acid-resistant fibrils. Their function is unknown.

PRINCIPAL F.: The major fiber groups of the functioning periodontium:

ALV EOLAR CREST F.: Attaches to the cementum just apical to the cemento-enamel junction and run apically and laterally to insert into the surface of the alveolus.

APICAL F.: Radiates from the cementum around the apex of the root to the adjacent bone.

HORIZONTAL F.: Located just apical to the alveolar crest group, these fibers run perpendicular to the long axis of the root from cementum to bone.

INTERRADICULAR F.: Found between the roots of multirooted teeth, these fibers run from the cementum into the crestal bone of the interradicular septum.

OBLIQUE F.: The most numerous fiber group of the periodontal ligament; run from the cementum outwardly and coronally to insert into the bone.

TRANSSEPTAL F.: Collagenous fibers that run interdentally from the cementum just apical to the base of the junctional epithelium of one tooth over the alveolar crest to insert into a comparable region of an adjacent tooth.

FIBEROTOMY: See: Gingival Fiberotomy.

FIBROBLAST: The predominant connective tissue cell; a flattened, irregularly-branched cell with a large oval nucleus that is responsible, in part, for the production and remodeling of the extracellular matrix.

FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR: A family of growth factors with mitogenic properties for fibroblasts and mesoderm-derived cell types.

FIBROMA: A benign neoplasm of fibrous connective tissue.

PERIPHERAL OSSIF YING F.: A fibroma, usually of the gingiva, showing areas of calcification or ossi fication.

FIBROMATOSIS, GINGIVAL: See: Gingival Fibromatosis.

FIBRONECTIN: High molecular weight (450 kDa) glycoproteins composed of two disulfide-linked polypeptides; functional domains of the molecule have affinity for cells and the extracellular matrix components; found on cell surfaces, in connective tissues, in the blood, and in other body fluids.

FIBRO-OSSEOUS INTEGRATION: See: Integration.

FIBROSIS: A fibrous change of the mucous membranes, especially the gingiva, as a result of chronic inflammation. Fibrotic gingiva may appear outwardly healthy, masking underlying disease.

FILLING, RE TROGRADE: An amalgam or other restoration placed in the apical portion of a tooth to seal the root canal following surgical removal of a periapical lesion and/or the end of the root.

FISSURE: A general term for a cleft or groove.

FISTULA: An abnormal canal joining the cavities of two hollow organs or the cavity of an organ and the surface of the body. See: Sinus Tract.

OROANTRAL F.: An abnormal opening between the maxillary sinus and the mouth.

OROFACIAL F.: An abnormal opening between the cutaneous surface of the face and mouth.

ORONASAL F.: An abnormal opening between the nasal cavity and the mouth.

FLAP: A loosened section of tissue separated from the surrounding tissues except at its base.

D OUBLE PAPIL L A PEDICLE F.: The use of the papillae on the mesial and distal of a tooth as laterally positioned flaps sutured together over the tooth root.

ENVELOPE F.: A flap retracted from a horizontal linear incision, as along the free gingival margin, with no vertical incision.

GINGIVAL F.: A flap that does not extend apical to the mucogingival junction.

MODIFIED WIDMAN F.: A scalloped, replaced, mucoperiosteal flap, accomplished with an internal bevel incision, that provides access to the root for root planing.

MUCOGINGIVAL F.: A flap that includes both gingiva and alveolar mucosa.

MUCOPERIOSTEAL (Full Thickness) F.: A mucosal flap (usually gingiva and alveolar mucosa) that includes the periosteum.

PAPILLARY PEDICLE F.: A laterally-rotated flap employing the gingival papilla.

PARTIAL, THICKNESS (Split Thickness) F.: A surgical flap of mucosa and connective tissue that does not include the periosteum.

PEDICLE F.: A surgical flap with lateral releasing incisions. See: Sliding Flap.

P OSITIONED F.: A surgical flap that is moved or advanced laterally, coronally, or apically to a new position.

REPLACED F.: A flap replaced in its original position.

REP OSITIONED F.: See: Replaced Flap.

SLIDING F.: A pedicle flap moved to a new position.

FLORA, ORAL: The microorganisms residing within the oral cavity.

FLOW CY TOMETRY: Measures the physical and chemical characteristics of individual cells as they move past optical or electronic sensors; can be used to detect and characterize specific cells in a mixed population; used to determine the effects of drugs, hormones, chemicals, etc., on cell proliferation, growth, and function.

FOOD IMPACTION: The forceful wedging of food into the interproximal space by chewing pressure (vertical impaction) or the forcing of food interproximally by tongue or cheek pressure (horizontal impaction).

FORAMEN: A natural opening or passage, particularly into or through a bone.

FORDY CE’S GRANULES: A developmental anomaly characterized by ectopic sebaceous glands appearing as minute, yellowish papules on the oral mucosa.

FOREIGN BODY: A non-native substance in the tissues or body cavities.

FOREIGN-BODY REACTION: A granulomatous reaction around a foreign material within a tissue or organ; often characterized by giant cells. This may present as acute or chronic gingival inflammation and may produce tattoos; or red, red/white; or suppurative lesions.

FORNIX: Any arch-shaped structure or vault-like space created by that structure, such as the vestibular fornix.

FOSSA: A shallow depression, concavity, or hollow area.

FREE GINGIVAL GROOV E: See: Gingival Groove.

FREEWAY SPACE: The space between the maxillary and mandibular teeth when the mandible is suspended in the postural position.

FREEZE-DRYING: See: Lyophilization.

FREMITUS: A palpable or visible movement of a tooth when subjected to occlusal forces.

FRENOTOMY: The cutting of a frenulum, especially the release of ankyloglossia.

FRENULECTOMY (Frenectomy): The excision of a frenulum.

FRENULUM: A small band or fold of integument or mucous membrane that checks, curbs, or limits the movements of an organ or part.

ABNORMAL F.: Aberrant insertions of labial, buccal, or lingual frenula capable of retracting gingival margins, creating diastemas, and limiting lip and tongue movements.

LABIAL F.: The fold of mucous membrane connecting the lip and the alveolar process in the midline of both the maxilla and mandible.

LINGUAL F.: The fold of mucous membrane connecting the tongue with the floor of the mouth and the mandibular alveolar process.

FRENUM: See: Frenulum.

FRONTAL PLANE: Any plane passing longitudinally through the body from side to side at right angles to the median plane. It divides the body into front and back parts.

FUNCTIONAL SIDE: The side of the body towards which the mandible moves in lateral excursion.

FUNGI: A eucaryotic (nucleated) group of microbes. A phylum of plants whose members are devoid of any pigment capable of photosynthesis; they are unable to synthesize protein or other organic material from simple compounds, and are therefore parasitic or saprophtic. The three major pathologic mycoses or fungal infections involving subcutaneous orofacial sites are Sporotrichosis, Entomophthoromycosis, and Rhinosporidiosis. In immunocompromised individuals, Candida species are responsible for oralmycoses and may cause oral infections (thrush) in AIDS patients or other debilitated humans. Designated “opportunistic” pathogens since they are often found as members of the normal oral flora.

Most frequently implicated representative is C. albicans. Candidiasis attributable to C tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. pseudotropicalis, and stellatoidea have also been cultivated from the oral cavity.

FURCATION: The anatomic area of a multi rooted tooth where the roots diverge.

FURCATION INVASION: See: Periodontal Bony Defects.

FUSED TEETH: Two or more teeth that are structurally united. See: Gemination.

FUSIFORM: A descriptive term of bacterial cell morphology, referring to a spindle or cigar-shaped cell, such as is observed frequently for members of the genera Fusobacterium and Capnocytophaga.

FUSOBACTERIUM NUCLEATUM: Gram-negative, non-motile, anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria commonly associated with periodontal disease.

FUSOBACTERIUM SSP.: Gram-negative, nonmotile, anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria, frequently with “sickle-shaped” morphology, found as part of the indigenous flora of the oral cavity.

FUSOSPIROCHETAL INFECTION: An infection characterized by a predominance of fusiforms and spirochetes.

See: Occlusion, Eccentric.

ECCHYMOSIS: An extravasation of blood into subcutaneous tissue or mucosa.

ECOLOGY: The study of the relationships of organisms with other organisms and their environment.

ECTODERMAL DYSPLASIA: See: Dysplasia, Ectodermal.

EC TOPIC: Occurring in an unusual position, manner, or form, as in ectopic eruption.

EDEMA: An abnormal swelling resulting from an accumulation of fluid in a tissue or part.

EDENTULOUS: Without teeth.

EIKENELLA CORRODENS: Gram-negative, nonmotile, microaerophilic, rod-shaped bacteria found primarily in subgingival plaque. Also associated with sinusitis, meningitis, pneumonia, and endocarditis.

ELEC TROSURGERY: Division of tissues by high frequency electrical current applied locally with a metal instrument or needle.

ELISA: Acronym for enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay wherein an enzyme-antibody complex binds to an agent thought to be present in a sample. Typically, an enzyme-activated dye is used to detect the presence of bound immunoglobulin-enzyme complex. The amount of color is proportional to the concentration of bound antibody/suspect agent present in the test sample.

EMBOLUS: A blood clot, air, or other foreign material that travels in the bloodstream unti I it obstructs a blood vessel.

EMBRASURE: The space between the proximal surfaces of adjacent teeth where those surfaces diverge apically, buccally, lingually, or occlusally from an area of contact.

EMIGRATION: See: Diapedesis.

EMPHYSEMA: I. A pathological accumulation of air or gas in tissue spaces. In the oral and facial regions it may be caused by an air syringe, an air-driven dental handpiece, coughing, or blowing the nose.

2. Permanent dilation of respiratory alveoli.

ENAMEL: The hard, calcified tissue covering the coronal dentin.

ENAMEL PEARL: A small, focal mass of enamel formed apical to the cemento-enamel junction.

ENAMEL PROJEC TION: An apical extension of enamel, usually toward a furcation.

ENDEMIC: Present in a community at all times. Occurs continuously.

ENDOCARDITIS: Inflammation of the endocardial surface of the heart.

INFECTIVE E.: A microbial infection of the endocardial surface of the heart, usually involving the heart valves. Formerly classified as acute, subacute, and chronic bacterial endocarditis, but now delineated by the offending microorganism (i.e., streptococcal infective endocarditis).

ENDOCRINOPATHY: A disorder resulting from an abnormality of the endocrine glands or their secretions.

ENDOGENOUS: I. Growing from within. 2. Developing or originating within an organism or arising from causes within an organism.

ENDOTHELIUM: The layer of squamous cells lining blood vessels, lymphatics, the heart, and all serous and synovial cavities of the body.

ENDOTOXIN: A heat-stable, lipid polysaccharide complex found in the cell wall of many Gramnegative microorganisms. It can be cytotoxic,

pyogenic, and has been shown to induce and/or amplify inflammation and has been implicated in the etiologies of periodontitis.

ENOSTOSIS: A bony growth located within a bony cavity or extending centrally from the cortical plate.

See: Osteitis, Condensing.

ENUCLEATE: To remove an organ or lesion in its entirety.

ENZYME: A catalytic substance, protein in nature, formed by living cells and having a specific action in promoting a chemical change.

ENZYME-LINKED IMMUNOADSORBEN T ASSAY: See ELISA.

[‘PINEPHRINE: A neuro-hormone produced and secreted into the circulation by the adrenal medulla; a catecholamine which has adrenomimetic effects; used in local anesthetic solutions for its vasoconstrictive properties.

EPI TIHELIAL AT TACHMENT: See: Epithelium, Junctional.

EPI THELIALIZATION (Epithelization): Healing by growth of epithelium over connective tissue.

EPITHELIUM, ORAL: The tissue serving as the lining of the intraoral surfaces. It extends into the gingival crevice and adheres to the tooth at the base of

the crevice.

CREVICULAR E.: The non-keratinized epithelium of the gingival crevice.

JUNCTIONAL E.: A single or mUltiple layer of nonkeratinizing cells adhering to the tooth surface at the

base of the gingival crevice. Formerly called epithelial attachment.

SULCULAR E.: See: Epithelium, Crevicular.

EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS (EBV): Herpes; DNA virus that causes Burkitt’s lymphoma in which the human peripheral blood leukocytes are transformed into lymphoblast-like cells with an indefinite life span.

EPULIS: A non-specific term for any tumor of the gingiva.

EQUILIBRATION, OCCLUSAL: See: Occlusal Adjustment.

EROSION: An apparent chemical dissolution of enamel and dentin, unrelated to caries, causing a cavity that has a hard, smooth base.

ERUPTION, DENTAL: The emergence of a tooth into the oral cavity.

ACTIVE E.: The process by which a tooth moves from its germinative position to its functional position.

PASSIVE E.: Tooth exposure secondary to apical migration of the gingiva.

ERYTHEMA: Redness of the skin or mucous membranes produced by congestion of the capillaries.

LINEAR GINGIVAL ERYTHEMA: A gingival manifestation of immunosuppression characterized by a distinct linear erythematous band limited to the

free gingiva. The lesion does not predictably respond to plaque removal.

ERYTHEMA MULTIFORME: An acute dermatitis of unknown cause that may be preclpitateLi by drug intake, herpes simplex infection, or other diseases.

Characteristic erythematous “target” or “bull ‘s eye” lesions occur on the skin; intraorally, diffuse hyperemic macules, papules, and vesicles may be seen.

STEVENS-JOHNSON SY NDROME: A severe form of erythema multi forme characterized by painful oral bullae that rupture; bloody, crusting lips; conjunctivitis; photophobia; and urethritis, balanitis, and/or vaginal ulcers.

ERYTHROMYCIN: A bacteriostatic macrolide group of antibiotics that has both Gram-positive and Gram-negative antibacterial spectra and acts by inhibiting ribosomal protein synthesis.

ERYTHROPLASIA (Erythroplakia): A red. papular, or macular lesion (often ulcerated) of mucous membrane. Can be pre-malignant.

ESCHAR: A slough caused by cauterization or by application of some corrosive substance.

ESTROGEN: A generic term for naturally-occurring steroid hormones containing an estrane nucleus (estrone, estadiol, estriol, etc.); secreted from the testis, ovary, and placenta; stimulates protein anabolic actions and exerts a positive effect on nitrogen balance; regulates the growth and maintenance of female accessory sex organs and secondary sex characteristics; implicated in hormonal, pubertal, and menopausal desquamative gingivitis.

ETIOLOGY: The study of the causes of disease; alternately, the cause of a disease.

EUBACTERIUM BRACHII: Gram-positive, nonmotile, anaerobic, pleomorphic bacilli or coccobacilli that occur in pairs of short chains. Found in the oral cavity, they are usually part of the indigenous oral flora.

EUBACTERIUM SSP.: Gram-positive, non-motile anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria frequently found in subgingival plaque.

EUBACTERIUM TIMIDUM: Gram-positive, nonmotile, anaerobic bacilli that are isolated from wounds and other infections and are associated with other anaerobes and facultative bacteria. May be involved in bacteremia and endocarditis.

EVULSION: The sudden tearing out, or away, of tissue due to a traumatic episode. See: Avulsion.

EXACERBATION: Increase in the severity of a disease or of any of its signs or symptoms.

EXCISION: A cutting out; removal; the process of amputating or cutting away any portion of the body.

EXFOLIATION: I. The shedding of something, such as epithelial cell from the surface of the body. 2. In dentistry, the physiological loss of the primary dentition; the loss of implanted materials.

EXOGENOUS: Due to external cause; not arising within the organism.

EXOPHYTIC: Growing outward; proliferation on the exterior or surface of an organ.

EXOSTOSIS: A benign, bony growth projecting outward from the surface of a bone. See: Torus.

EXOTOXIN: A toxic substance formed by species of certain bacteria and found outside the bacterial cell.

EXTIRPATION: The complete removal of an organ or tissue.

EXTRAVA SATE: To seep or escape from a cavity, vessel, or enclosed area into the surrounding tissues (i.e., blood or ly mph).

EXTRINSIC: Derived from or situated without; external.

EXTRUSION: In dentistry, the overeruption or migration of a tooth from its normal occlusal position, as when the contacting tooth in the opposing arch is missing.

EXUDATE: Material such as fluid, cells, and cellular debris that has escaped from blood vessels and is deposited in tissues or on tissue surfaces, usually as a result of inflammation.

F IBRINOUS E.: Characterized by an abundance of fibrinogen resulting in subsequent fibrin formation at

the site of injury.

HEMORRHAGIC E.: Characterized by an abundance of red blood cells.

PURULENT E.: Characterized by an abundance of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, resulting in pus formation at the site of injury.

SEROUS E.: Characterized by an abundance of serous fluid of high protein content at the site of injury.

zinc oxide eugenol cement: a cement or luting agent resulting from mixing zinc oxide with eugenol (oil of cloves), typically dispensed in the form of a powder and liquid or sometimes two pastes. ANSI/ADA Type I or Type II zinc oxide and eugenol cements are respectively designated for provisional or permanent cementation of restorations fabricated outside of the mouth—see EBA CEMENT

zinc phosphate cement: a cement or luting agent resulting from mixing zinc oxide (powder component) with phosphoric acid, water, aluminum phosphate and zinc phosphate (liquid component). Magnesium oxide is often used as the principal modifier

zinc polycarboxylate cement: a cement or luting agent resulting from mixing zinc oxide, magnesium oxide and sometimes stannous oxide (powder component) with an aqueous solution of polyacrylic acid and copolymers

zirconia ceramic post: a ceramic post used in the restoration of endodontically treated teeth, especially when a metal post may compromise esthetics. Typically used with composite resin or compression ceramics to form the core

zygoma : the area formed by the union of the zygomatic bone with the zygomatic processes of the temporal and maxillary bones