DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II – TESDA COURSE MODULE

DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II TESDA COURSE

This TESDA Course in DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures / Appliances) NC II consists of competencies that a person must achieve to perform dental laboratory and prosthetics services specializing in removable dentures/appliances.

A student who has achieved this TESDA Course in DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II is competent to be:

• Dental Laboratory Technician (Removable Dentures/Appliances)
• Dental Prosthetics Technician (Removable Dentures/Appliances)

TRAINEE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Trainees or students wishing to enroll in these course qualifications should possess the following requirements:

• Must be 18 years old
• Must be a holder of a Dental Laboratory Technology Services NCI or its equivalent
• Must be physically fit and mentally fit (specifically on eye and hand coordination)
• Must be able to communicate either oral or written
• Must be at least a high school graduate or its equivalent

This list does not include specific institutional requirements such as educational attainment, appropriate work experience, and others that may be required of the trainees by the school or training center delivering this TVET program.

DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II

Course Title: DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances)
Level: NC II
Nominal Training Duration : 

(Basic Competency) 18 Hours
(Common Competency) 46 Hours
(Core Competency) 1,382 Hours

Total Duration: 1,446 Hours

This course is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and attitudes of DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Fixed Dentures/Restorations) in accordance with industry standards. It covers basic, common and core competencies in NC II.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED IN DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II

This units of competency comprising this qualification include Basic, Common, Elective and Core Competencies.

To obtain this TESDA course in DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II, all units prescribed for this qualification must be achieved.

These units of competency comprising this qualification include the following:

UNIT CODE	CORE COMPETENCIES (1,382 Hours)
HCS322328	Arrange artificial teeth for complete dentures
HCS322329	Set-up and wax removable partial dentures
HCS322330	Wax, process and finish acrylic dentures and appliances
HCS322331	Fabricate thermo formed bases and appliances
HCS322339	Repair and modify dentures and appliances
HCS322332	Fabricate oral splints
HCS322333	Fabricate orthodontic appliances
HCS322334	Fabricate cast metal removable partial denture framework
UNIT CODE	COMMON COMPETENCIES (46 Hours)
HCS516201	Maintain an effective relationship with clients / customers
HCS516202	Manage own performance
HCS346204	Follow occupational health and safety policies in dental laboratory facilities
HCS346205	Maintain infection control in dental practice
ICT311201	Operate a personal computer
UNIT CODE	BASIC COMPETENCIES (18 Hours)
500311105	Participate in workplace communication
500311106	Work in a team environment
500311107	Practice career professionalism
500311108	Practice occupational health and safety procedures

CORE COMPETENCIES

This section gives the details of the contents of the core units of competency required in DENTAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Removable Dentures/Appliances) NC II.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : ARRANGE ARTIFICIAL TEETH FOR COMPLETE DENTURES
UNIT CODE : HCS322328

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in the selection, arrangement and wax contouring of a complete denture.

1. Prepare case for setting of teeth
   • Artificial teeth are selected to work order.
   • Bases and rims are modified as required for positioning of teeth.
2. Arrange artificial teeth
   • Work order is followed.
   • Teeth are positioned to achieve aesthetics and centric occlusion, balanced articulation and balanced occlusion.
   • Teeth are secured in wax and contoured to gingival outline.
3. Wax up denture for try-in
   • Wax is applied as required.
   • Facial and lingual aspects are contoured.
   • Muscle attachments are located and relieved.
   • Peripheral extensions are smoothened and rounded.
   • Distal extensions are confirmed.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : SET-UP AND WAX REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURES
UNIT CODE : HCS322329

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to setup and wax removable partial dentures.

1. Design acrylic removable partial denture
   • Models are surveyed.
   • Design is established and transferred to master model.
   • Undesirable undercuts are blocked out.
   • Food lines are scribed.
2. Select and prepare materials
   • Materials are selected according to work order.
   • Shape and dimension of components are established from design.
3. Arrange artificial teeth
   • Teeth are selected and positioned in wax to established aesthetics and function.
   • Wax is contoured and dentures made suitable for try-in in mouth.
4. Fabricate retainer units
   • Components are constructed as required.
   • Components are joined as required.
   • Teeth and components are secured in wax.
   • Facial and lingual aspects are contoured.
   • Appliance is secured for processing.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : WAX, PROCESS AND FINISH ACRYLIC DENTURES AND APPLIANCES
UNIT CODE : HCS322330

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes concerned with the process involved in polymerization and finishing of acrylic dentures and appliances.

1. Wax case for finish consistent with work order
   • Wax is applied as required by work order.
   • Facial and lingual aspects are contoured.
2. Select and prepare materials and processing
   • Appropriate polymer system for case is identified.
   • Appropriate investment technique is identified.
   • Appropriate processing cycle is identified.
   • Material is selected from identified polymer system.
   • System components are combined.
   • Materials are allowed to reach application stage.
3. Process denture or appliance
   • Appropriate investment techniques are applied.
   • Material is applied to mould.
   • Appropriate processing cycle is applied.
   • Model is divested.
   • Remount on articulator.
4. Grind dentures and appliances selectively
   • Centric occlusion is restored.
   • Balanced occlusion is restored.
   • Balanced articulation is restored.
   • Function is restored.
5. Finish denture or appliance
   • Denture or appliance is trimmed, shaped and finished according to job specifications.
   • Dentures are disinfected according to current DOH infection guidelines.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : FABRICATE THERMO-FORMED BASES AND APPLIANCES
UNIT CODE : HCS322334

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitude in fabricating thermo-formed bases and appliances.

1. Prepare model
   • Work order is interpreted.
   • Outline is marked and finished lines are scribed where applicable.
   • Block-out material is applied as required.
2. Thermo-form appliance or base
   • Thermo-forming material and apparatus is selected.
   • Heat is applied to material.
   • Softened material is adapted.
   • Material is allowed to cool.
   • Adaptation is verified.
3. Trim, shape and finish appliances or bases
   • Thermo-formed blank is removed.
   • Outline is trimmed and fitted to model.
   • Outline is refined.
   • Appliance or base is smoothened and finished.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: REPAIR AND MODIFY DENTURES AND APPLIANCES
UNIT CODE : HCS322339

This unit covers the knowledge and skills required to reline, rebase, repair and modify removable prostheses. Demonstration of this unit of competency requires training and/or experience in infection-control procedures, constructing models, articulating models and transferring records, and constructing simple complete removable acrylic dentures and appliances.

1. Prepare case
   • Standard precautions are applied when receiving, handling and working on dentures and appliances
   • Dentures and appliances are decontaminated according to infection control guidelines
   • Prescription are read and interpreted
   • Fractured components are examined for defects
   • Fractured components are realigned, positioned and secured in their correct relationship
2. Prepare model
   • Model is constructed in accordance with the dentist requirements
   • Articulation key is constructed if required
3. Repair denture or appliance
   • Denture surfaces are prepared and shaped to allow for bonding with the new material
   • Components are relocated
   • Materials and processing equipment are selected and prepared
   • Repair material is applied using the correct technique to acquire the required shape and thickness
   • Material is processed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions/specifications
4. Modify denture or appliance, where required
   • Impressions are decontaminated according to infection control guidelines
   • The model material is poured into the impression in accordance with accepted techniques
   • Where necessary, case is articulated and records are transferred or articulation key is constructed based on client requirement
   • Denture or appliance surfaces are prepared appropriately in accordance with modification to be made
   • Denture is relined, re-based or modified in accordance with dentist prescription
5. Trim, shape and finish denture or appliance
   • Denture or appliance is trimmed to relevant anatomical outline or required extension of the base
   • The tissue fitting surface is examined and any processing anomalies and sharp surfaces are removed
   • Surfaces are refined and polished in order produce required contours
   • Finished prosthesis are evaluated in accordance with quality standard
   • The appliance is decontaminated according to infection control guidelines
   • The appliance is placed in a sealed container for dispatch

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : FABRICATE ORAL SPLINTS
UNIT CODE : HCS322332

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitude in fabricating oral splints.

1. Fabricate splint
   • Materials for the fabrication of splint are selected.
   • Splint is fabricated according to work order requirements.
   • Splint is processed according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Trim, shape and finish
   • Splint is trimmed according to material selection.
   • Splint is shaped according to work order and rechecked on articulator.
   • Splint is fitted back to master model.
   • Splint is finished appropriately according to type of material selected.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : FABRICATE ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES
UNIT CODE : HCS322333

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitude in fabricating orthodontic appliances.

1. Select or fabricate and assemble components and materials
   • Materials are selected according to design and function specified by work order.
   • Individual components are selected and/or fabricated as appropriate to work order.
2. Fabricate orthodontic appliance
   • Components are secured to model by appropriate means.
   • Materials are applied and processed according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Finish orthodontic appliance
   • Appliances are trimmed, shaped and finished.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : FABRICATE CAST METAL REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURE FRAMEWORK
UNIT CODE : HCS322331

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes concerned with fabrication of alloy removable partial denture framework.

1. Prepare master model
   • Work order is interpreted.
   • Alloy is selected
   • Model is surveyed.
   • Designed is transferred to master model.
   • Undesirable undercuts are blocked out.
   • Clasp ledges are created.
   • Finished lines are scribed.
   • Tissue relief is applied.
   • Saddle relief is applied.
2. Construct refractory model
   • Master model is duplicated in refractory material and sprue former is constructed, as necessary.
   • Refractory model surface is treated.
3. Wax and invest removable partial denture framework
   • Design is transferred to refractory model.
   • Patterns and waxes are selected.
   • Patterns are waxed up and sprues attached.
   • Appropriate investment and technique are selected.
   • Investment material is prepared.
   • Wax, patterns and sprues are treated.
   • Investment setting time is allowed for.
4. Burn out, cast and finish removable partial denture framework
   • Burn out and preheat cycles are selected for appropriate investment/alloy combination.
   • Investment mould is burnt out and preheated.
   • Alloy is melted and cast using appropriate equipment/technique.
   • Cooling cycle is selected and applied.
   • Denture framework is devested.
   • Denture framework is trimmed, shaped, treated, finished and fitted to master model.
   • Framework is treated in accordance with DOH infection control guidelines.

COMMON COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : MAINTAIN AN EFFECTIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH CLIENTS/CUSTOMERS
UNIT CODE : HCS516201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in building and maintaining an effective relationship with clients, customers and the public.

1. Maintain a professional image
   • Uniform and personal grooming maintained to assignment requirements.
   • Personal presence maintained according to employer standards.
   • Visible work area kept tidy and uncluttered.
   • Equipment stored according to assignment requirements.
2. Meet client/customer requirements
   • Client requirements identified and understood by referral to the assignment instructions.
   • Client requirements met according to the assignment instructions.
   • Changes to client’s needs and requirements monitored and appropriate action taken.
   • All communication with the client or customer is clear and complies with assignment requirements.
3. Build credibility with customers/clients
   • Client expectations for reliability, punctuality and appearance adhered to.
   • Possible causes of client/customer dissatisfaction identified, dealt with and recorded according to employer policy.
   • Client fully informed of all relevant security matters in a timely manner and according to agreed reporting procedures.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : MANAGE OWN PERFORMANCE
UNIT CODE : HCS516202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in effectively managing own workload and quality of work.

1. Plan for completion of own workload
   • Tasks accurately identified.
   • Priority allocated to each task.
   • Time lines allocated to each task or series of tasks.
   • Tasks deadlines known and complied with whenever possible.
   • Work schedules are known and completed within agreed time frames.
   • Work plans developed according to assignment requirements and employer policy.
   • Uncompleted work or tasks detailed and responsibility for completion passed to incoming shift or other appropriate persons.
2. Maintain quality of own performance
   • Personal performance continually monitored against agreed performance standards.
   • Advice and guidance sought when necessary to achieve or maintain agreed standards.
   • Guidance from management applied to achieve or maintain agreed standards.
   • Standard of work clarified and agreed according to employer policy and procedures.
3. Build credibility with customers/clients
   • Client expectations for reliability, punctuality and appearance adhered to.
   • Possible causes of client/customer dissatisfaction identified, dealt with and recorded according to employer policy.
   • Client fully informed of all relevant security matters in a timely manner and according to agreed reporting procedures.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : FOLLOW OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES IN DENTAL LABORATORY FACILITIES
UNIT CODE : HCS346204

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in applying relevant OHS legislation and codes of practice, including duties and responsibilities for all parties under general duty of care.

1. Follow workplace procedures for hazard identification and risk control
   • Hazards in the work area are recognized and reported to supervisor in accordance with workplace procedures.
   • Workplace procedures and work instructions for controlling risks, including infection control, are followed accurately.
   • Workplace procedures for dealing with accidents, fires and emergencies are followed where necessary.
2. Contribute to the management of OHS
   • OHS issues are raised with designated personnel and coworkers as appropriate.
   • Contributions are made as appropriate to workplace OHS discussions.
3. Utilize and implement strategies as directed to prevent infection in the workplace
   • The environment is kept clean and tidy.
     3.2 Personal hygiene practices are followed.
     3.3 Any items that may be contaminated are disposed of safely.
4. Utilize strategies to prevent stress overload
   • Nominated rest time and breaks are taken.
     4.2 Sources of stress are identified and issues raised with supervisor.
     4.3 Work roles are clarified and followed.
5. Work in a safe manner
   • Defined procedures are followed to ensure personal safety.
     5.2 All work is carried out in a manner which ensures safety of self and others
     5.3 Organizational security measures are followed.
     5.4 Safe manual handling procedures are followed.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : MAINTAIN INFECTION CONTROL IN DENTAL LABORATORY PRACTICE
UNIT CODE : HCS346205

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to comply with infection control procedures before, during and after health care procedures.

1. Monitor and maintain the cleanliness of the dental laboratory
   • Appropriate personal protective wear is used during cleaning of equipment and surfaces.
   • Appropriate disinfectants and cleaning equipment are selected, prepared and used on surfaces in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification.
   • Used surface covers, if applicable, are removed and replaced in a manner to prevent cross contamination.
   • Cleaning equipment is correctly stored.
   • All surfaces including internal storage units within the dental laboratory are monitored and maintained for cleanliness.
2. Clean and disinfect dental laboratory /instruments and equipment
   • Dental laboratory instruments and equipment are cleaned of bio-burden and lubricated, where appropriate, prior to cleaning and disinfecting.
   • Dental laboratory instruments and equipment are checked for faults and disassembled where appropriate.
   • Prior to cleaning of dental laboratory instruments and equipment are loaded safely and effectively.
   • Appropriate cleaning procedures are carried out in the correct sequence and duration in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
   • Regular maintenance program including faults and incidences are recognized, reported and documented.
3. Maintain hygiene and personal protection
   • Hand washing procedures are correctly followed.
   • Open cuts and abrasions are covered with a waterproof dressing.
   • Appropriate personal protection wear is correctly worn.
   • Immunization is undertaken in accordance with current recommendations for dental health care worker.
   • All work is carried out in a manner that minimizes the risk of cross contamination and complies with OHS policy and procedures.
   • Hazards in the dental laboratory is recognized and reported to operator.
   • Appropriate procedures for dealing with accidents, including sharp injuries, are followed correctly.
4. Dispose of dental laboratory waste safely
   • Appropriate protective clothing is worn or used in accordance with OHS policy and procedures when handling waste.
   • Waste is segregated, contained, stored and transported correctly.
   • Damaged and/or pre-packed items are disposed of safely.
   • Waste is disposed of safely.
5. Undertake the necessary measures to ensure prevention of transmission of infection
   • Risks of cross contamination are identified and appropriate responses implemented within dental practice.
   • Clean, contaminated and administrative zones are clearly identified and maintained.
   • Instruments, materials, medicaments and equipment are set up prior to commencement of treatment where appropriate.
   • One-way workflow from clean to dirty zone is maintained.
   • Risk of transmission of infection is minimized in all dental laboratory related and administrative procedures.
   • Spills are removed correctly.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: OPERATE A PERSONAL COMPUTER
UNIT CODE: ICT311201

This unit defines the competency required to operate a personal computer by: starting the PC, logging in, using and working with files, folders and programs, saving work, and closing down the PC.

1. Start the computer
   • The peripheral devices are properly connected
   • Power is checked and the computer and peripheral devices are switched on
   • Proper logging in and logging off is successfully done
   • The operating system features and functions are accessed and navigated
   • Hardware configuration and other system features are checked
2. Arrange and customize desktop display/ Windows settings
   • The desktop screen or Windows elements are changed as needed
   • Desktop icons are added, renamed, moved, copied or deleted
   • The online help functions are accessed or used as needed
   • Desktop icons of application programs are selected, opened and closed
   • Properties of icons are displayed
   • Computer or desktop settings are saved and restored
3. Work with files and folders (or directories)
   • A file or folder is created, opened, moved, renamed or copied
   • Files are located, deleted and restored
   • Details and properties of files and folders are displayed or viewed
   • Various files are organized for easy lookup and use
   • Files and information are searched
   • Disks are checked, erased or formatted as necessary
4. Work with user application programs
   • Application programs are added, changed, removed or ran
   • User software or application program are installed, updated and upgraded
   • Information/data are moved between documents or files
5. Print information
   • Printer is added or installed and correct printer settings is ensured
   • Default printer is assigned accordingly
   • Information or document is printed on the installed printer
   • Progress of print jobs are viewed and deleted as required
6. Shut down computer
   • All open application programs are closed
   • Computer and peripheral devices are properly shut down

BASIC COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
UNIT CODE : 500311105

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to gather, interpret and convey information in response to workplace requirements.

1. Obtain and convey workplace information
   • Specific and relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources
   • Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used together and convey information
   • Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas
   • Appropriate non- verbal communication is used
   • Appropriate lines of communication with supervisors and colleagues are identified and followed
   • Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of information are used
   • Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely
2. Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
   • Team meetings are at ended on time
   • Own opinions are clear expressed and those of others are listened to without interruption
   • Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and established protocols
   • Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner
   • Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and matters concerning working conditions of employment are asked and responded to.
   • Meetings outcomes are interpreted and implemented
3. Complete relevant work related documents
   • Range of forms relating to conditions of employment are completed accurately and legibly
   • Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and documents
   • Basic mathematical processes are used for routine calculations
   • Errors in recording information on forms/documents are identified and properly acted upon
   • Reporting requirements to supervisor are completed according to organizational guidelines

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : WORK IN TEAM ENVIRONMENT
UNIT CODE : 500311106

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes to identify role and responsibility as a member of a team.

1. Describe team role and scope
   • The role and objective of the team is identified from available sources of information
   • Team parameters, reporting relationships and responsibilities are identified from team discussions and appropriate external sources.
2. Identify own role and responsibility within team
   • Individual role and responsibilities within the team environment are identified.
   • Roles and responsibility of other team members are identified and recognized.
   • Reporting relationships within team and external to team are identified.
3. Work as a team member
   • Effective and appropriate forms of communications used and interactions undertaken with team members who contribute to known team activities and objectives.
   • Effective and appropriate contributions made to complement team activities and objectives, based on individual skills and competencies and workplace context.
   • Observed protocols in reporting using standard operating procedures.
   • Contribute to the development of team work plans based on an understanding of team’s role and objectives and individual competencies of the members.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE CAREER PROFESSIONALISM
UNIT CODE : 500311107

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes in promoting career growth and advancement.

1. Integrate personal objectives with organizational goals
   • Personal growth and work plans are pursued towards improving the qualifications set for the profession
   • Intra- and interpersonal relationships is are maintained in the course of managing oneself based on performance evaluation
   • Commitment to the organization and its goal is demonstrated in the performance of duties
2. Set and meet work priorities
   • Competing demands are prioritized to achieve personal, team and organizational goals and objectives.
   • Resources are utilized efficiently and effectively to manage work priorities and commitments
   • Practices along economic use and maintenance of equipment and facilities are followed as per established procedures
3. Maintain professional growth and development
   • Trainings and career opportunities are identified and availed of based on job requirements
   • Recognitions are sought/received and demonstrated as proof of career advancement
   • Licenses and/or certifications relevant to job and career are obtained and renewed

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE  OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
UNIT CODE : 500311108

This unit covers the outcomes required to comply with regulatory and organizational requirements for occupational health and safety.

1. Identify hazards and risks
   • Safety regulations and workplace safety and hazard control practices and procedures are clarified and explained based on organization procedures
   • Hazards/risks in the workplace and their corresponding indicators are identified to minimize or eliminate risk to co-workers, workplace and environment in accordance with organization procedures
   • Contingency measures during workplace accidents, fire and other emergencies are recognized and established in accordance with organization procedures
2. Evaluate hazards and risks
   • Terms of maximum tolerable limits which when exceeded will result in harm or damage are identified based on threshold limit values (TLV)
   • Effects of the hazards are determined
   • OHS issues and/or concerns and identified safety hazards are reported to designated personnel in accordance with workplace requirements and relevant workplace OHS legislation
3. Control hazards and risks
   • Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) procedures for controlling hazards/risks in workplace are consistently
     followed
   • Procedures for dealing with workplace accidents, fire and emergencies are followed in accordance with organization OHS policies
   • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is correctly used in accordance with organization OHS procedures and practices
   • Appropriate assistance is provided in the event of a workplace emergency in accordance with established organization protocol
4. Maintain OHS awareness
   • Emergency-related drills and trainings are participated in as per established organization guidelines and procedures
   • OHS personal records are completed and updated in accordance with workplace requirements

DEFINITION OF TERMS

• ABUTMENT – Tooth or teeth that support a fixed or removable bridge
• ANTERIOR TEETH – the six upper or six lower front teeth (canines, laterals & central incisors)
• APEX – the tip of the root of a tooth
• ARCH – describes the alignment of the upper or lower teeth
• ARTICULATE – to unite by forming a joint or joints
• ARTICULATOR – a mechanical device representing the temporomandibular joints and jaw members to which casts of the mouth
• BASE – cement placed under a dental restoration to insulate the pulp (nerve chamber)
• BITE – relationship of the upper and lower teeth on closure (occlusion)
• BONDING – adhesive dental restoration technique; a tooth-colored composite resin to repair and/or change the color or shape of a tooth
• BRACES – devices used by orthodontists to gradually reposition teeth to a more favorable alignment
• BRIDGE – stationary dental prosthesis (appliance) fixed to teeth adjacent to a space; replaces one or more missing teeth, cemented or bonded to supporting teeth or implants adjacent to the space
• CANTILEVER BRIDGE – fixed bridge that attaches to adjacent teeth only on one end
• CAP – common term for dental crown
• CLASP – device that retains a removable partial denture to stationary teeth; can be metal or acrylic (matches teeth and gums)
• CROSS BITE – reverse biting relationship of upper and lower teeth; aka “under bite,” as in Class III malocclusuion (prognathic jaw)
• CROWN (1) the portion of a tooth above the gum line; (2) dental restoration covering all or most of the natural tooth
• CUSTOM IMPRESION TRAY – an impression tray made from a preliminary impression used to make the final impression
• DENTAL WAXES – wax compounds used in dentistry are mixtures of individual waxes of materials or synthetic origin. As with all other dental materials, each component n the mixture is selected to given specific properties best suited for the procedure being performed
• DENTURE – removable (partial or complete) set of artificial teeth
• DIASTEMA – open space between teeth
• DISTAL – farthest from any point of reference
• DUPLICATE – identically copied from an original
• FABRICATE – to make; create; to construct by combining or assembling
• FACE-BOW FORK – a device used to attach the face-bow to an occlusion rim for a facebow transfer
• FACING – tooth colored overlay on the visible portion of a crown; may be acrylic, composite or porcelain
• FILLING – restoration of lost tooth structure with metal, porcelain or resin materials
• FULL DENTURE – removable dental prosthesis (appliance) replacing all upper or lower teeth
• FULL MOUTH RECONSTRUCTION – extensive restorations of natural teeth with crowns and or fixed bridges to manage restorative and bite problems.
• GYPSUM – is the common name for calcium sulfate dehydrate. Gypsum products are more frequently used on laboratory procedures than any other single group of compounds. Controlled variations in the manufacturing of gypsum products yield a group of dental materials including plaster, artificial stone (hydrosol), disc stone, casting investment and soldering investment
• IMPRESSION – mold made of the teeth and soft tissues
• INLAY – indirect – filling made by a dental laboratory that is cemented or bonded into place, direct – placement of dental composite resin, or porcelain restoration at chairside
• INTEROCCLUSAL – space between upper and lower teeth
• JACKET – crown for a front tooth, usually made of porcelain
• LAMINATE – thin plastic or porcelain veneer produced in a dental laboratory and then bonded to a tooth
• MALOCCLUSION – “bad bite” or misalignment of the upper and lower teeth
• MARGIN – interface between a restoration and tooth structure
• MARYLAND BRIDGE – a bridge that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth; requires minimum tooth reduction
• MODEL – a material used extensively for making impressions. It contains shellac, talc, glycerin, wax, tallow and palm oil
• OVERBITE – vertical overlap of the front teeth; deep bite
• PARTIAL DENTURE – removable dental prosthesis (appliance) replacing one or more natural teeth
• PONTIC – replacement tooth mounted on a fixed or removal appliance
• PORCELAIN CROWN – all porcelain restoration covering the coronal portion of tooth (above the gum line)
• PORCELAIN FUSED TO METAL (PFM) CROWN – restoration with metal coping (for strength) covered by porcelain (for appearance)
• PORCELAIN INLAY OR ONLAY – tooth-colored restoration made of porcelain, cemented or bonded in place
• PORCELAIN VENEERS – a thin layer of porcelain, fabricated by a laboratory) bonded to a natural tooth to replace lost tooth structure, close spaces, straighten teeth or change color and/or shape
• PROSTHESIS an artificial appliance for the replacement for a body part, tooth or teeth
• SOLDERING INVESTMENT – a soldering investment is similar in composition to a casting investment that has a
• SPLINT – connection of two or more teeth so they function as a stronger singlestructure