Molar Distalization
Pronunciation: MOH-lar dis-tal-eye-ZAY-shun
The controlled orthodontic movement of upper or lower molar teeth in a posterior (distal) direction to create space or correct a Class II molar relationship.
Full Definition
Molar distalization is achieved through a range of appliances including the Pendulum, Jones Jig, and intraoral distalizers, as well as temporary anchorage devices (TADs). In written documents, the term should be spelled 'distalization' (not 'distalisation') when following American conventions, though 'distalisation' is acceptable in British English usage. Editors must confirm which spelling convention the document follows and apply it consistently. Molar distalization is distinct from molar intrusion or molar uprighting, and confusion of these terms in patient letters or clinical reports constitutes a clinical accuracy error.
Usage
Usage note: American English: 'distalization'; British English: 'distalisation'. Apply one form consistently. Distinguish from other molar movements (uprighting, intrusion, extrusion) when editing treatment-plan documents.
In Context
- "Molar distalization using a TAD-supported appliance was planned to create 4 mm of space in the upper arch." — Treatment planning document
- "'Molar distalisation' and 'molar distalization' appeared interchangeably; the editor standardised to 'distalization' per the journal's American English house style." — Copyediting note