Dental Arch
The curved arrangement of the teeth and supporting alveolar bone in the maxilla or mandible, described as maxillary (upper) or mandibular (lower) arch.
Full Definition
The dental arch refers to the curved series of teeth — together with their investing alveolar bone and overlying gingiva — arranged in the maxilla (maxillary arch) or mandible (mandibular arch). Arch form is described as ovoid, tapered, or square and is a critical reference in orthodontic treatment planning, prosthodontic rehabilitation, and denture design. The relationship between the two arches determines the occlusion, and discrepancies in arch length, width, or form contribute to malocclusion. In documentary and editorial contexts, 'arch' should be qualified as maxillary or mandibular unless referring generically to both arches.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'maxillary' or 'mandibular' when referring to a single arch to avoid ambiguity in records and correspondence.
In Context
- "Alginate impressions were taken of both dental arches and poured in type III dental stone." — Orthodontic records protocol
- "Arch width discrepancy between the upper and lower dental arches necessitated transverse expansion prior to fixed appliance therapy." — Orthodontic treatment planning report