National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

In dental terminology, what does the term "buccal" refer to?

1. Toward the nose

2. Toward the tongue

3. Toward the cheek

4. Toward the throat

The correct answer is: Toward the cheek

The term "buccal" refers specifically to the area of the mouth that is adjacent to the cheeks. In dental terminology, "buccal" is used to describe surfaces of the teeth or areas within the oral cavity that are oriented toward the buccal cavity, or the inside of the cheeks. This is particularly important in the context of dental procedures and assessments, as it helps practitioners identify the correct surfaces of teeth that may require treatment, cleaning, or observation. Understanding this term is essential for effective communication in the dental field and ensures that all members of the dental team are on the same page regarding patient care. The other terms relate to different anatomical locations but do not specifically describe the relationship to the cheeks.