Orthodontic terms starting with A

Impression – An imprint of the rows of teeth, from which a model is made in the laboratory. Today it is often replaced by the intraoral scanner. Intraoral scanner

Activator – A removable appliance that guides the lower jaw forward as the mouth closes. It does not push on its own, but uses the muscles and natural growth. Functional orthodontics Distal bite

Aligner – A clear plastic tray that moves teeth in small steps. A set consists of many trays, which are changed every one to two weeks. Attachment Wear time

Angle classes – Classification of the bite according to the position of the first permanent molars: Class I normal, Class II lower jaw set back, Class III lower jaw forward. Occlusion Prognathism Distal bite

Attachment – A small tooth-colored knob bonded onto a tooth so that the aligner tray can grip there. Aligner

Bite splint – A plastic splint that temporarily props the bite open or cushions nighttime grinding. Teeth grinding