National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

What is the term for the curvature formed by the maxillary and mandibular arches in occlusion?

1. Curve of Spee

2. Curve of Wilson

3. Parabolic Curve

4. Transverse Plane

The correct answer is: Curve of Spee

The term that describes the curvature formed by the maxillary and mandibular arches in occlusion is known as the Curve of Spee. This curvature is a concave line that follows the buccal cusps of the posterior teeth and extends from the anterior teeth to the posterior teeth, generally starting at the tip of the lower canine and following the curvature to the buccal cusp of the last molar on the same side. Understanding the Curve of Spee is significant in dentistry, especially in relation to occlusion, as it plays a crucial role in the function and aesthetics of occlusion. A proper Curve of Spee allows for effective distribution of occlusal forces during chewing and contributes to the overall balance of dental function. While other terms like the Curve of Wilson and the parabolic curve relate to occlusion, they refer to different aspects or dimensions of dental arch curvature. The transverse plane, on the other hand, describes an anatomical orientation rather than a specific curvature in occlusion. Therefore, the specificity and context of the Curve of Spee make it the correct terminology for the curvature formed by the maxillary and mandibular arches in occlusion.