LINGUAL SURFACE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "lingual surface" refers to a specific anatomical orientation and location within the oral cavity, particularly in reference to the teeth. Specifically, it is the inner surface of the teeth that faces towards the tongue. In dental anatomy, it is common to divide the surfaces of the teeth into different categories for descriptive and clinical purposes. The lingual surface is one of these defined categories.
The lingual surface of the teeth is primarily responsible for interacting with the tongue during various functions such as speech, chewing, and swallowing. It can vary in shape and contour depending on the type of tooth. The lingual surface of the anterior teeth, such as the incisors and canines, typically exhibits a smooth, convex shape that facilitates ease of movement and articulation with the tongue. This contour helps with speech production, especially when pronouncing certain sounds.
In contrast, the lingual surface of the posterior teeth, specifically the premolars and molars, often display more rugged and undulating features due to the presence of cusps and grooves. These variations aid in the efficient grinding and chewing of food.
Furthermore, the lingual surface is also an important area for dental hygiene maintenance. It requires regular cleaning, alongside the other tooth surfaces, to prevent dental plaque and tartar buildup, as well as to avoid oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Overall, the lingual surface plays a crucial role in dental anatomy, function, and oral hygiene.
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The inner surface of a tooth, that which looks toward the tongue; opposed in this sense to buccal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LINGUAL SURFACE
- kingual surface
- pingual surface
- oingual surface
- lungual surface
- ljngual surface
- lkngual surface
- longual surface
- l9ngual surface
- l8ngual surface
- libgual surface
- limgual surface
- lijgual surface
- lihgual surface
- linfual surface
- linvual surface
- linbual surface
- linhual surface
- linyual surface
- lintual surface
- lingyal surface
Etymology of LINGUAL SURFACE
The word "lingual" derives from the Latin word "lingua", meaning "tongue". It is related to other Latin terms like "lingualis" (pertaining to the tongue) and "linguo" (to lick). The word "surface" comes from the Latin word "surfae" meaning "superficies" or "the outermost part". So, the etymology of "lingual surface" can be understood as referring to the outermost part or side of something related to the tongue. It is commonly used in dentistry to describe the inner surface of teeth that faces the tongue.
