Category: D

  • Depth gauge

    Graduated instrument with markings designed to measure the vertical extent of an osteotomy preparation.  

  • Deprogrammer

    Any device that alters reflexive proprioceptive behavior during mandibular closure.    

  • Depassivation

    Loss or removal of the surface oxide layer of a metal.  

  • Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

    A nucleic acid that constitutes the genetic material of all cellular organisms and the DNA viruses. A polymer of subunits called deoxyribonucleotides which is the primary genetic material of a cell, the material equivalent to genetic information. Chemical substance found in chromosomes within cell nuclei; its molecular structure contains the organism’s genetic information. The genetic material…

  • Deosseointegration

    The loss of a previously achieved osseointegration of a dental implant due to periimplantitis, occlusal overload, or other factors.  

  • Denudation

    The process of removing the covering from any surface. In periodontics, often refers to removal of all soft tissue overlying the bone. Removal of a layer or cover through surgery, disease, or trauma; often used in reference to the skin. Severe skin infections may cause loss or sloughing of skin; the affected area is said…

  • Denturist

    Any nondentist who makes, fits, and repairs removable dentures directly for the public. A nondentist licensed to provide complete dentures directly to the public. A technician who provides dentures directly to the public without referral or supervision from a licensed dentist. Denturism is illegal in most states and is considered to be practicing dentistry without a license.…

  • Denture supporting structures

    The remaining alveolar ridges or teeth that serve as foundational support for a removable partial or full denture.  

  • Denture stability

    The resistance of a denture to movement on its tissue foundation, especially to lateral (horizontal) forces as opposed to vertical displacement (termed denture retention). A quality of a denture that permits it to maintain a state of equilibrium in relation to its tissue foundation and/or abutment teeth.  

  • Denture space

    The three‐dimensional area of the mouth that is or may be occupied by maxillary and/or mandibular dentures. 2. The space once occupied by teeth, alveolar bone, and surrounding soft and hard tissues but is now available for a complete or partial denture.