Interproximal
Pertaining to the contact area or space between adjacent teeth, encompassing the mesial and distal surfaces facing one another.
Full Definition
The interproximal region encompasses the surfaces of adjacent teeth that face each other (mesial and distal), the contact point or area between them, and the embrasure space below the contact. This zone is clinically important as a common site for caries initiation and periodontal bone loss that may not be visible on direct clinical examination. Editors should be aware that 'interproximal' and 'proximal' are used interchangeably in some texts, but 'interproximal' specifically implies the region between two teeth, whereas 'proximal' may simply mean 'nearest to'.
Usage
Usage note: 'Approximal' is the preferred term in some European dental literature; editors should standardize to the house style choice throughout a document.
In Context
- "Bitewing radiographs are the gold standard for detecting interproximal carious lesions not visible clinically." — Radiology methods section
- "Interproximal cleaning with floss or interdental brushes is essential for plaque removal in this region." — Patient information leaflet