Curve of Spee
Pronunciation: kurv ov SHPAY
The anteroposterior curvature of the mandibular dental arch when viewed in the sagittal plane, running from the cusp tips of the lower incisors back along the buccal cusps of the posterior teeth.
Full Definition
Named after anatomist Ferdinand Graf von Spee, this curve describes the arc of the occlusal surface in the lower arch. A pronounced (deep) curve of Spee is commonly associated with deep overbite and may require levelling during orthodontic treatment, which creates an arch length discrepancy that editors should note when cross-checking space analysis figures. In editorial documents, 'Curve of Spee' is styled with initial capitals for 'Curve' when used as a proper anatomical term; 'curve of Spee' (lowercase 'curve') is also seen and both are acceptable if applied consistently. The possessive apostrophe is omitted—'Spee' not 'Spee's' in most modern usage.
Usage
Usage note: Omit the possessive apostrophe: 'Spee' not 'Spee's'. Capitalisation of 'curve' varies by house style; apply consistently. The eponym refers to Ferdinand Graf von Spee.
In Context
- "Levelling the pronounced curve of Spee will require approximately 2 mm of additional arch length." — Treatment planning letter
- "The editor standardized all instances to 'curve of Spee' (lowercase 'curve') for consistency throughout the report." — Copyediting note