Scan and design
Terms that describe how the digital impression and the design file are produced.
- IOS — intraoral scanner; produces an STL or PLY surface scan.
- STL — the standard surface file format used for design and printing.
- Margin line — the boundary of the preparation that the restoration seals against.
- Emergence profile — the contour of the restoration as it leaves the implant and meets the gingiva.
- Cut-back — a reduced framework design that leaves room for layered porcelain.
- Virtual articulator — software that reproduces jaw movement to check occlusion.
Implant terms
Terms used when the restoration is supported by implants.
- Multi-unit abutment (MUA) — an abutment that corrects angulation and creates a common screw axis.
- Photogrammetry — optical measurement of implant positions using a camera and targets (for example ICam4D).
- Verification jig — a rigid index used to confirm that a model reproduces the implant positions.
- Titanium base — the metal interface bonded to a zirconia abutment or crown.
- Passive fit — a framework that seats without stress on the implants.
Occlusion and appliances
Terms used in splint and TMJ work.
- Stabilisation splint — a flat-plane appliance providing even bilateral contacts.
- Repositioning splint — an appliance that guides the mandible to a therapeutic position.
- Pivot splint — an appliance with a single posterior contact that unloads the joint.
- NTI-tss — an anterior point-stop appliance that reduces clenching force.
- Freeway space — the clearance between the arches at rest.