occlusion

Lineup of upper and lower teeth surfaces when mouth is closed, also known as “bite”.

onlay

Prosthetic restoration that covers the occlusal (biting/chewing) surface of a tooth, but not the whole tooth.

operculectomy

Surgical removal of the operculum.

operculum

Tissue flap covering partially or fully unerupted tooth.

oral

Referring to the mouth.

oral and maxillofacial surgeon

Specialist with at least 4 additional years of specialized training beyond the dental degree, diagnoses and treats oral diseases, injuries, deformities, defects, or other issues, including surgical treatments of the oral and maxillofacial areas.

oral and maxillofacial surgery

Surgical treatment of the mouth, jaw, and related areas, may include extraction, repair of defects or fractures, removal of tumors or cysts, and others.

oral cavity

The inside of the mouth.

oral hygiene

Establishment and maintenance of habits designed to keep mouth, gums, and teeth healthy.

oral pathologist

Dental specialist who focuses on study, diagnosis, and management of diseases affecting the oral cavity, jaws, and other connected areas.

oral pathology

The study, diagnosis, and management of diseases affecting the oral cavity, jaws, and other connected areas.

orthodontics

Dental specialty concerned with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusion and other neuromuscular or skeletal abnormalities of the orofacial structure.

orthodontist

Dental specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusion and other neuromuscular or skeletal abnormalities of the orofacial structure.

orthognathic

Refers to the functional relationship between the mandible and maxilla (upper and lower jaws).

osseous

Refers to bone tissue.

osteoplasty

Surgical procedure that modifies bone structure.

osteotomy

Surgical procedure involving the cutting of bone structure.

overbite

Orthodontic issue, when upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower.