mould guide
A reference chart supplied by an artificial tooth manufacturer showing the shape, size, and designation codes of available tooth forms for prosthetic selection.
Full Definition
A mould guide is the catalogue system—usually a physical card, booklet, or digital reference—used by dental technicians and clinicians to select artificial teeth for complete and partial dentures. Each 'mould' denotes a specific tooth shape (ovoid, square, tapering, or mixed) and is assigned an alphanumeric code by the manufacturer. The mould guide also typically displays tooth sizes in millimetres and recommended arch combinations. Correct interpretation of mould guide codes is essential when completing laboratory prescriptions; an error in the mould designation can result in teeth that are aesthetically or dimensionally incompatible with the patient's arch. Editors transcribing laboratory orders should reproduce mould codes exactly, as they are case-sensitive and proprietary to each manufacturer.
Usage
Usage note: Mould codes are manufacturer-proprietary and not interchangeable across brands. Editors must reproduce codes verbatim. Do not confuse mould selection with shade selection, which is a separate decision.
In Context
- "The prescription referenced mould 33L from the Vita MFT mould guide for the upper anterior teeth." — Laboratory prescription
- "The technician consulted the mould guide to confirm that the specified upper and lower moulds were a compatible arch set." — Fabrication log