Dehiscence
Pronunciation: deh-HIS-ens
A V- or U-shaped defect in the alveolar bone extending from the crestal margin apically, leaving a portion of the tooth root uncovered by bone.
Full Definition
Alveolar dehiscence is a bone defect in which the marginal bone is absent and the root surface is exposed from the crest downward, distinguishing it from a fenestration where intact bone surrounds the defect on all sides. Dehiscences occur most frequently on buccal surfaces of prominent roots and are clinically relevant in periodontal surgery, orthodontic treatment planning, and implant placement. The finding is typically identified intraoperatively after flap reflection, as it may not always be visible on conventional radiographs. Editors should note the correct dental spelling and context because 'dehiscence' in general surgical usage refers to wound separation, which is a distinct concept.
Usage
Usage note: In dental manuscripts, specify 'alveolar dehiscence' to avoid confusion with the general surgical use of the term for wound-edge separation.
In Context
- "A 6 mm buccal dehiscence was present on the lower left canine, necessitating a connective tissue graft." — Periodontal surgery case note
- "Note that 'dehiscence' in this periodontal context describes a bone defect, not wound breakdown—clarify for a general medical readership." — Editing annotation