Distalises

Distalises is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb distalise, used mainly in British English. To distalise means to move something so that it becomes more distal—farther from a specified reference point such as the body's midline or the attachment of a limb—or to shift a structure along the proximal–distal axis. In anatomy and biology, distalisation can describe displacement, growth, or surgical relocation of structures away from the proximal region.

In dentistry and orthodontics, distalisation refers specifically to moving teeth toward the back of the mouth. This is performed to correct malocclusions, create space for alignment, or influence the overall bite. Techniques include fixed appliances with distalizing springs or tubes, removable appliances, and sometimes extraoral devices such as headgear. The objective is often to gain anterior space without extraction, though extraction may be considered in some cases. Distalisation can affect occlusion, bite, and root trajectories and typically requires careful anchorage control and monitoring for potential side effects such as root resorption or periodontal changes.

Etymology notes: the term derives from Latin distalis meaning “of the farthest,” combined with the suffix -ise. In American English, the corresponding verb form is distalize/distalizes. Distalisation appears primarily in clinical and academic usage within anatomy and dentistry.