What does valgoid mean?
Valgoid is a specialized orthodontic term for a tooth that is inclined distally, toward the back of the mouth, so that its occlusal or biting surface faces buccally, toward the cheek. The word is most useful when describing the position or angulation of an individual tooth in examinations, diagnostic records, and treatment planning. It is not a general synonym for “crooked,” nor does it mean merely that a tooth points backward: both the direction of inclination and the orientation of the biting surface are part of the definition. Valgoid can therefore be contrasted with the opposite dental term varoid while remaining a technical counterpart to the broader anatomical use of valgus for an outward deviation. Its specialized vocabulary makes it easy to confuse with valvoid, an unrelated adjective meaning valve-like, but the two belong to different fields and do not describe the same feature.
adjectiveIn dentistry, valgoid describes a tooth inclined distally, toward the back of the mouth, with its occlusal or biting surface facing buccally, toward the cheek. It is a specialized directional term rather than a general synonym for crooked.
- In dentistry, inclined distally, toward the back of the mouth, with the occlusal or biting surface facing buccally, toward the cheek.
"The orthodontist noted that the lower second premolar was valgoid, with its occlusal surface turned toward the cheek."
"The lower canine was markedly valgoid, with its biting surface directed toward the cheek."
"Radiographic notes often record whether a premolar is upright or valgoid."
Valgoid names the angle of a tooth in one breath: its biting surface turns toward the cheek.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How valgoid is actually used
A highly specialized, chiefly orthodontic term rather than standard general English. In this usage, distally means toward the rear of the mouth and buccally means toward the cheek.
Easily confused with valgoid
Valgoid is the dental term for a tooth inclined distally with its occlusal surface facing buccally, whereas valvoid means resembling a valve.