Terms and Phrases

An ankylosed tooth is a tooth whose root has fused directly to the surrounding jawbone, preventing it from erupting or moving normally.

Bone remodeling is the natural process of removing and rebuilding bone that allows teeth to move during orthodontic treatment and helps support them in their new positions.

Dental crowding happens when there is not enough room in the jaw for every tooth to fit comfortably. Teeth may overlap, rotate, emerge out of position, or become trapped beneath the gums. Crowding can affect children, teenagers, and adults, and its severity varies considerably from one person to another.

Orthodontic relapse is the unwanted movement of teeth away from the positions achieved with braces or clear aligners after active treatment ends.

The periodontal ligament is a thin layer of living connective tissue that attaches each tooth root to the surrounding jawbone and helps absorb biting forces and guide tooth movement.