Dental Assistant Practice Exam 2026 - Free Dental Assistant Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term 'Facial' refers specifically to the surface of anterior teeth that faces the lips. This surface is crucial in both aesthetics and function, as it is the only surface exposed to the oral cavity when a person smiles or speaks. Anterior teeth include incisors and canines, which have a visible surface that interacts directly with the environment outside the mouth.

The other terms refer to different surfaces: the surface toward the tongue is known as the lingual surface; the surface toward the midline would be described as the mesial surface; and the surface away from the midline is termed the distal surface. Understanding these terms is essential for proper communication in dentistry, as they help in identifying and discussing specific areas of the teeth during examinations or procedures.