Category: M

Value with the largest number of observations, namely the most frequent value or values. The value that occurs most frequently in a set of data. In statistics, any class occurring most frequently. A type of average; also an alternate term for modalities or sensory modes. A statistical term which is the most frequently occurring value…

The movement of a tooth in its socket resulting from an applied force.  

Matrix metalloproteinase.  

A substance that causes DNA synthesis, blast transformation, and mitosis in lymphocytes. An agent that triggers mitosis, elicit all the signals necessary to induce cell proliferation. A substance (e.g., growth factor, hormone, etc.) that initiates cell division within the body. For example, most Angiogenic Growth Factors (e.g., fibroblast growth factor) stimulate cell division of the…

Lack of precise adaptation of one component to another, particularly the lack of ideal passive fit of a multiple‐unit prosthesis to two or more implants. Misfit is considered to be detrimental in that it may lead to increased occurrence of component loosening or fracture and may contribute to attachment loss adjacent to an implant.  

The process of symmetrically copying and transferring one dental design feature (e.g., crown) to the contralateral side. For example, mirroring a maxillary central incisor so that its pair is an exact, mirrored duplicate. As conceptualized by Heinz Kohut (1913–1981), the empathic responsiveness of the parent to the developing child’s activities. The parental response teaches the…

The smallest diameter of a screw thread.  

The connecting link between the major connector or base of a partial removable dental prosthesis and the other units of the prosthesis, such as the clasp assembly, indirect retainers, occlusal rests, or cingulum rests.