sliding mechanics is an orthodontic method for moving teeth along an archwire. It relies on brackets (or tubes) sliding on a wire as force is applied. It is commonly used in fixed braces for aligning teeth and closing spaces. Friction between the wire and brackets is a key factor in how it behaves.
extrusion mechanics describes how a dental material is pushed (extruded) from a syringe, compule, or mixing tip and then shaped into place. It is commonly discussed with resin composites, flowable liners, and other tooth-colored restorative materials. In simple terms, it is the “delivery-and-flow” behavior that determines how smoothly a material places, adapts, and stays where it is put. Clinicians consider extrusion mechanics when choosing a material and technique for fillings, repairs, and build-ups.
intrusion mechanics is a set of orthodontic methods used to move a tooth slightly “upward” into the bone. It is most commonly used to reduce a deep bite or to level uneven tooth heights. It can be done with braces, clear aligners, and sometimes small temporary anchors placed in the jaw. The goal is controlled tooth movement while protecting the gums, roots, and supporting bone.
open bite mechanics refers to orthodontic methods used to correct an open bite, where upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth closes. It combines specific appliances and force systems to move teeth and sometimes influence jaw position. It is commonly used with braces, clear aligners, elastics, temporary anchorage devices (TADs), or orthognathic (jaw) surgery planning. The goal is to create stable tooth contact so chewing, speech, and appearance can function more normally.
posterior bite blocks are temporary “platforms” placed on the back teeth (premolars and/or molars) to change how the upper and lower teeth meet. They are commonly used in orthodontics to open the bite (increase the space between teeth) during tooth movement. They can be made from bonded dental materials (often resin-based composite) or fabricated as part of a removable appliance. The goal is usually to guide occlusion (the bite) in a controlled way while other dental or orthodontic steps are performed.
bite turbos are small “bite-opening” additions placed on teeth to temporarily change how the upper and lower teeth touch. They are most commonly used during orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners. In plain terms, they create a little extra space so certain teeth or brackets don’t hit each other. They are usually made from tooth-colored dental resin (composite), though other designs and materials exist.
bite opening is a dental strategy that increases the space between the upper and lower teeth when you bite together. It is commonly used in orthodontics and restorative dentistry to create “working room” for tooth movement or repairs. It can be done temporarily with bonded materials (such as composite “bite turbos”) or with removable appliances. The exact method and amount of opening varies by clinician and case.
curve of Spee leveling is an orthodontic approach used to flatten or reduce the natural front-to-back curvature of the biting surface. It is most often discussed when planning deep-bite correction and full-arch alignment. It can be performed with braces, clear aligners, or a combination of techniques. The goal is to create a more balanced, stable bite relationship between the upper and lower teeth.
TSALD is a term some dental teams use as shorthand for a tooth-colored, adhesive, light-cured restorative material placed in small amounts. It is most commonly discussed in the context of minor repairs, small cavities, or as a thin “liner” layer under another filling material. The exact meaning of TSALD can vary by clinician, region, and manufacturer terminology. In everyday patient language, it generally refers to a tooth-colored resin material that bonds to teeth and hardens with a curing light.
tooth size discrepancy is a mismatch between the widths of upper and lower teeth. It describes whether teeth are proportionally “too large” in one arch compared with the other. It is most commonly discussed in orthodontics and smile design during treatment planning. It helps explain spacing, crowding, and why a bite may not “fit” ideally even when teeth look straight.