What term describes the aspect of the tooth that is towards the middle of the mouth?

The term that describes the aspect of the tooth that is towards the middle of the mouth is "mesial." In dental terminology, mesial refers specifically to the surface of a tooth that is closest to the midline or center of the dental arch. This concept is important for understanding dental anatomy and for conveying information about tooth positioning during examinations or procedures.

In contrast, distal refers to the surface of the tooth that is farthest from the midline, while lingual describes the surface of the tooth that is closest to the tongue, and labial pertains to the surface closest to the lips. Understanding these terms helps in accurately assessing dental conditions and planning treatments.