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A rigid, comparatively thin layer of wax, shellac, or thermoplastic (heat, chemical, photo activated) polymer that conforms to the edentulous surface of a definitive cast. It is often intended to be a base that can have a wax occlusion rim or similar material attached for the purpose of recording a jaw position and/or setting prosthetic…

Measurements taken at the beginning of treatment with which subsequent measurements are compared. In research, a known quantity or measurement with which subsequent data are compared.  

An alloy composed of metals that are not noble. An alloy that does not contain noble metals such as gold or silver. Stainless steel is the most common base metal alloy used in dentistry.  

Any metallic element that does not resist tarnish and corrosion. A metal that corrodes or oxidizes relatively easily. Examples include aluminum, brass, nickel, and steel.  

Supporting bone in the mandible that underlies and is continuous with thealveolar process and houses the major nerves and vessels. It also functions as a site of muscle attachment and is resistant to resorption.  

A thin, flexible material used in guided bone regeneration (GBR) to locally augment deficient sites in implant patients. By creating a secluded space, the barrier prevents epithelial cells and fibroblasts from proliferating into the augmentation site, whereas the slower-growing angiogenic and osteogenic cells have exclusive access to the membrane-protected space. The first membranes were made…

Connecting bar for adding rigidity and/or stability between teeth or implants. It is also used to fixate displaced or movable body parts as a result of trauma or surgery.  

A metal component of greater length than width that serves to connect the parts of a removable partial denture.