What is the term for the outside surface of the posterior teeth facing the cheek?

The outside surface of the posterior teeth that faces the cheek is referred to as the buccal surface. This term is specifically used to describe the area of the tooth that is adjacent to the buccal mucosa, which is the inside lining of the cheeks. The buccal surface is important in dentistry as it helps in identifying the positioning of teeth and planning for treatments that involve orthodontics, restorations, or extractions.

The lingual surface, on the other hand, pertains to the side of the teeth that faces the tongue, which is crucial for understanding oral hygiene and cavity risks. The labial surface describes the front surfaces of the anterior teeth that face the lips, relevant to aesthetics and cosmetic dental procedures. Lastly, the occlusal surface is the top chewing surface of the teeth where the upper and lower teeth come into contact. Each of these surfaces plays a distinct role in dental anatomy and oral health.