Buccalize

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To shift a tooth outward so that it sits closer to the inner surface of the cheek than before
2. To reposition a tooth in the dental arch toward the side of the mouth nearest the cheek
3. Moving a tooth or teeth toward the cheek side of the jaw, often as part of orthodontic treatment

Etymology: "Buccalize" is a plain technical formation: it combines "buccal", meaning relating to the cheek or the mouth's side, with the English verbal suffix "-ize", which turns a noun or adjective into a verb meaning to make or treat in a certain way. "Buccal" itself comes from the Latin "buccalis", from "bucca", cheek, so the word simply describes the act of applying something to the cheek side of the mouth. The word belongs to the vocabulary of pharmacology and dentistry, where it names a way of administering a drug: placing a tablet or film between the cheek and the gum so that it dissolves and is absorbed through the mucous membrane, bypassing the stomach. The verb follows the usual pattern of coining from classical roots, so its meaning is transparent to anyone who knows "buccal".