Odontoclasis is a medical term that refers to the process of crushing or breaking teeth. The word is formed from the Greek words "odontos" (tooth) and "klasis" (breaking), and the correct spelling is: [ɑːdɒntəʊˈkleɪsɪs]. The IPA phonetic transcription shows that the stress falls on the third syllable, and there is a long "a" sound at the beginning. Understanding the spelling of medical terms like odontoclasis is important for accurately communicating with other medical professionals and ensuring proper patient care.
Odontoclasis is a term used in dentistry to describe the intentional breaking or fracturing of a tooth or teeth for therapeutic purposes. The word is derived from the Greek words "odontos" meaning "tooth" and "klasis" meaning "a breaking or fracture." Odontoclasis is typically carried out by a dental professional in cases where a tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be repaired through conventional treatments.
The procedure involves carefully applying controlled force to the tooth using specialized tools or instruments to intentionally break it into smaller fragments. This allows for the removal of the affected tooth or the extraction of specific portions of it that are causing pain or infection. Odontoclasis is often performed prior to tooth extraction surgeries, such as impacted wisdom teeth removal, or in cases where a tooth cannot be surgically removed in one piece.
The technique of odontoclasis requires careful consideration of the patient's dental and overall health, as well as the specific condition of the affected tooth. Dental professionals must possess a high level of skill and expertise to execute odontoclasis safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of complications such as damage to adjacent teeth, soft tissues, or the jawbone.
In summary, odontoclasis is a dental procedure involving the intentional breaking or fracturing of a tooth for therapeutic purposes, typically performed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be repaired using conventional techniques.
Breaking of a tooth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "odontoclasis" is derived from two Greek roots: "odontos" meaning "tooth" and "klasis" meaning "break" or "fracture". The term "odontoclasis" is often used in medicine and dentistry to refer to the intentional breaking or fracturing of a tooth during a dental procedure.