dentoalveolar discrepancy is a mismatch between tooth size and the available space in the dental arch. It is commonly discussed in orthodontics when explaining crowding (not enough space) or spacing (too much space). Clinicians use it to describe how teeth and the supporting alveolar bone relate in size and position. It helps frame why alignment issues happen and what types of correction may be considered.

skeletal discrepancy describes a mismatch in jaw size, jaw position, or facial growth pattern between the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible). It is commonly discussed in orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and comprehensive treatment planning. In plain terms, it means the jaws do not “fit together” ideally, which can affect bite, facial balance, and function. It is different from tooth-only crowding or spacing, although both can occur together.

extrusion is a method of dispensing a dental material by pushing it out of a syringe, capsule, or automix tip. It allows clinicians to place small amounts of restorative or sealing material in a controlled way. extrusion is commonly used with flowable composites, sealants, and some resin cements. The goal is precise placement with less handling and more consistent adaptation to tooth surfaces.

intrusion is a restorative dentistry concept describing the intentional “pressing in” of a dental resin or composite into a prepared area or microscopic surface irregularities. It is most often discussed in the context of adhesive fillings and small repairs where close adaptation to tooth structure matters. The term is not fully standardized, and its meaning can vary by clinician and case. In practice, intrusion is achieved by using low-viscosity materials and placement techniques that improve contact with the tooth surface.

translation is a term used in dentistry and orthodontics to describe a specific kind of tooth movement. In translation, the tooth’s crown and root move together in the same direction, with minimal tipping. It is commonly discussed in braces and clear aligner treatment planning when clinicians aim for “bodily movement.” The same word can also appear in dental settings to mean language translation, but clinically it most often refers to tooth movement.

torque is a measure of rotational force—how strongly something is twisted around an axis. In dentistry, torque is commonly discussed when tightening screws (such as dental implants) and when using rotary instruments. It is also used in orthodontics to describe controlled tooth tipping (root position) using wires and brackets. Clinicians use torque to aim for consistent, repeatable force while reducing damage to teeth, restorations, or components.

tipping is a type of orthodontic tooth movement where the crown (top of the tooth) moves more than the root. It changes a tooth’s angle rather than moving the whole tooth body evenly through bone. tipping is commonly discussed in braces and clear aligner treatment planning. It can be intentional (planned) or unintentional (a side effect of certain forces).

rotation is a dental term for a tooth that has turned around its long axis instead of facing the usual direction. It is a type of tooth misalignment (malposition) commonly seen in crowded or unevenly spaced teeth. Dentists and orthodontists describe rotation when planning braces, clear aligners, or other alignment approaches. It can affect appearance, cleaning, and how teeth meet when you bite.

midline deviation is a mismatch between the center line of the face and the center line of the teeth. It is most commonly discussed in orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and bite (occlusion) evaluation. It can involve the upper dental midline, the lower dental midline, or both. Clinicians use it as a descriptive finding that helps guide diagnosis and treatment planning.

diastema means a space or gap between two teeth. It most commonly refers to a visible gap between the upper front teeth. Dentists use the term in exams, chart notes, and treatment planning to describe tooth spacing. A diastema can be a normal variation, a sign of underlying factors, or a concern someone wants to change for function or appearance.