Dentistry is a branch of medicine that concentrates on the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disorders and diseases that affect the oral cavity. Medical illustrations provide a basis for understanding the intricacy of dental anatomy, where visual aid allows a network of interconnected concepts to be outlined with clarity. The following images are selected to highlight the various ways graphic art can be used to explain dental practices.

  1. Articulate Graphics LLC – The cross section of a molar tooth showing the crown, enamel, dentin, pulp, root, gums, nerves, blood vessels, periodontal ligament, cementum, and bone.

Articulate Graphics LLC Dental Anatomy Illustration

2.    Tina Pavlatos – The anatomy of a dental implant and natural tooth shown side-by-side.

Tina Pavlatos Tooth Anatomy Illustration

3. Graham Studios – The progression of tooth decay and gum disease.Graham Studios Tooth Decay Illustration

4. Alar Illustration – An overview of dental erosion, abrasion, and attrition.Alar Illustration Tooth Wear and Decay

5. Mary K. Bryson – A dental bridge used to replace a missing tooth (or several teeth by joining an artificial tooth permanently adjacent to teeth to dental implants.)
Mary K Bryson Dental Bridge Illustration

 

6. Laurie O’Keefe – Gum graft procedure of the lower incisors showing the sequence and surgical placement of the new graft to combat gum recession.

Laurie O'Keefe Gum Graft Procedure Illustration

7. Thompson Medical Illustration – The proper brushing technique for braces according to the American Association of Orthodontists. Thompson Medical Illustration Brushing Braces

Medical Illustrations create clarity in detailing dentistry through using visuals to explain abstract concepts. Sourcing explanatory diagrams allows procedures to be more intimately understood by both patients and practitioners, where patients can feel more comfortable grasping procedural concepts and practitioners are able to more thoroughly outline dental operations.