What does “Dental midline” mean?
A midline is a central reference line dividing the body, face, or dentition into right and left sides. In dentistry, the lines between the upper and lower central incisors are compared with the center of the face.
Which center lines are compared?
Check the center of the face, between the upper front teeth, and between the lower front teeth separately. Whether the upper and lower tooth centers coincide with each other and their relationship to the center of the face are separate observations.
What should I check if there is a discrepancy?
We examine the movement and arrangement of teeth, missing teeth, and the relationship and function of the jaw. Just the angle of the photo taken and the tilt of the head can make it look different.
Does this mean the same thing as front teeth gaping?
The midline is the reference for position, and the median diastema is the gap between the middle front teeth. Even if there is no gap, the center line can be misaligned, and even if there is a gap, the left and right centers can be aligned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I treat if the midline is slightly different?
The degree and cause of the discrepancy and any bite or appearance concerns are assessed together. A difference between the lines alone does not make treatment necessary.
Can veneers shift the dental midline?
Adjusting the visible proportions of the surface shape is different from orthodontics that moves the positions of teeth and roots. Distinguish between the methods needed to achieve the desired change.
Questions needed to understand the midline
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
What is the difference between the center of the face and the center of the teeth?
Explanation and evidenceFirst, we set the standard for comparison based on frontal photos and oral examination.
Dentalcare · Surfaces of the Teeth - A choice suited to your condition
Which approach is needed: shape change or tooth movement?
Explanation and evidencePlan separately whether it is a visible proportion issue or a tooth arrangement/jaw relationship issue.
American Dental Association · Orthodontics
