contour

contour /con·tour/ (kon´tldbomacr) [Fr.]

1. the normal outline or configuration of the body or of a part.

2. to shape a solid along certain desired lines.

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contour (kon´tōōr),

n the external shape, form, or surface configuration of an object.

contour, anatomic height of

n a line encircling a tooth to designate its greatest convexity.

contour, buccal,

n the shape of the buccal aspect of a posterior tooth. It normally has occlusocervical convexity, with its greatest prominence at the gingival third of the clinical buccal surface.

contour, gingival,

n the shape of the natural or artificial gingiva as it approximates the natural or artificial tooth.

contour, height of,

n the greatest convexity of a tooth viewed from a predetermined position.

contour, proximal

n the form of the mesial or distal surface of a tooth.

contour, restoration,

n the restoration of a proper contour where surfaces of teeth have been destroyed by disease processes or excessive wear.

contour, tooth,

n a shape of a tooth that is essential to a healthy gingival unit because it enables the bolus of food to be deflected from gingival margins during mastication.