What Are Buccal and Lingual Tooth Surfaces?

During a dental examination, you might hear your dentist call out terms like “buccal” and “lingual.” These are directional terms that dentists use to describe the specific surfaces of your teeth. Understanding what they mean helps you follow your own dental health assessment and allows for more informed conversations with your dental team.

Defining Buccal and Lingual Surfaces

The term “buccal” refers to the surface of a tooth positioned toward the inside of the cheek. This term applies to the posterior, or back teeth, which include the premolars and molars. These surfaces are generally smooth but can sometimes feature small indentations known as buccal pits.

The “lingual” surface is the side of the tooth that faces the tongue. A helpful mnemonic is the connection between “lingual” and “linguistics,” the study of language. While the term lingual is used for all teeth on the lower jaw, a different term is used for the upper jaw for greater specificity.

For the upper teeth, the surface facing the roof of the mouth is called the “palatal” surface, named for its proximity to the palate. So, while “lingual” identifies the tongue-facing side of the lower teeth, “palatal” is the more precise term for the same directional surface on the upper teeth.

Use in Dental Procedures and Charting

Directional terms like buccal and lingual are standard in dentistry for clear communication. When a dental professional identifies a condition, these terms allow them to relay its exact location to other team members or a dental laboratory. This precision prevents misunderstandings that could affect treatment quality.

This vocabulary is put into practice during dental charting, the process of creating a detailed map of your mouth. When a dentist finds a condition like a cavity, they will record its precise location using this terminology. For instance, a chart entry might read “cavity on the buccal surface of tooth #30,” which tells any dental professional the exact location of the decay.

These terms also guide various dental treatments. For example, orthodontic treatment might involve placing “buccal tubes” on the cheek-side of molars to anchor braces. If a filling is needed on the tongue-side of a tooth, the procedure will be described as treating the “lingual surface,” ensuring materials are directed to the correct area.

Associated Oral Health Concerns

Certain oral health issues are more common on specific tooth surfaces due to their location and anatomy. The buccal surfaces of molars, for example, contain pits and fissures that can trap food and bacteria, making them susceptible to decay. Dental sealants are often recommended because the sealant material fills these grooves and creates a smooth, easier-to-clean surface.

The lingual surfaces of the lower front teeth are a frequent site for the accumulation of tartar, also known as dental calculus. This area is close to the ducts of major salivary glands, and minerals in saliva contribute to the hardening of dental plaque into calculus. These surfaces can also be challenging to brush effectively, so regular professional cleanings are important for managing tartar buildup.