eruption guidance is a dental approach used to help newly erupting (coming in) teeth develop into a more favorable position. It is most commonly discussed in pediatric dentistry and early orthodontics, when permanent teeth are emerging. Depending on the case, it may involve monitoring, removable appliances, or small bonded resin “guidance” additions to teeth. The overall goal is to reduce interferences and support a healthier bite development as teeth erupt.

traction of impacted tooth is an orthodontic technique used to guide a tooth that is stuck in the jaw into its correct position. It commonly involves surgically exposing the tooth and bonding an attachment so gentle orthodontic forces can be applied. It is most often used for impacted canines, but it may be used for other impacted teeth in selected cases. The overall goal is to bring the tooth into the dental arch while protecting nearby teeth and supporting tissues.

canine exposure is a dental procedure that uncovers a permanent canine tooth that has not erupted into the mouth. It is most commonly used when an upper (maxillary) canine is impacted (stuck in bone or gum tissue). The goal is to make the tooth accessible so it can erupt naturally or be guided into place with orthodontics. It is typically planned jointly by an orthodontist and a dentist with surgical training (often a periodontist or oral surgeon).

An impacted canine is a canine tooth that does not erupt into the mouth when expected. It is most often discussed for the upper (maxillary) canine, which has a long eruption path. The term is used in dentistry and orthodontics to describe a tooth that is trapped in bone or gum tissue. It matters because canines support bite function and guide jaw movements.

gingival display is the amount of gum tissue (gingiva) that is visible when a person smiles. It is most commonly discussed during cosmetic smile evaluations and orthodontic or periodontal planning. Clinicians may assess gingival display in photos, videos, or during a live smile exam. People sometimes refer to a higher gingival display as a “gummy smile.”

The smile arc describes the curve formed by the edges of the upper front teeth when someone smiles. It is often compared with the curve of the lower lip in a posed (intentional) smile. Clinicians use it in smile analysis to understand how teeth, lips, and facial features relate visually. It is discussed in cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, prosthodontics, and restorative planning.

occlusal plane cant is a tilt of the biting plane when viewed from the front of the face. It means the teeth do not sit level side-to-side, so one side appears higher or lower. It is commonly discussed in orthodontics, prosthodontics, smile design, and jaw surgery planning. Clinicians evaluate it when facial symmetry, bite balance, or restorative fit is a concern.

occlusal settling is a restorative technique that helps a new filling or sealant conform to the way the upper and lower teeth meet. It commonly uses a flowable or injectable resin material that can “settle” into tooth anatomy under gentle biting pressure before curing. The goal is to create comfortable, stable bite contacts with minimal adjustment after the material hardens. It is most often discussed in the context of small posterior (back tooth) restorations and occlusal sealing.

Interproximal contacts (ortho) are the contact points or contact areas where two neighboring teeth touch. They help keep teeth positioned against each other and limit food packing between teeth. Orthodontics commonly evaluates and adjusts these contacts during alignment and finishing. They are also assessed after treatment to support comfort, hygiene, and stability.

finishing and detailing is the step where a dentist shapes and refines a restoration after it is placed and hardened. It focuses on smoothing, contouring, and polishing so the tooth looks and feels natural. It is commonly used after tooth-colored fillings (composite), bonding, and some types of crowns or repairs. It also helps the bite feel even and makes the restoration easier to keep clean.