HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What condition describes incomplete development of dentin tissue?

1. Dentinogenesis imperfecta

2. Enamel hypoplasia

3. Oligodontia

4. Hypocalcification

The correct answer is: Dentinogenesis imperfecta

The condition that describes incomplete development of dentin tissue is dentinogenesis imperfecta. This genetic disorder affects the formation of dentin, resulting in teeth that are discolored, brittle, and more prone to fractures. The faulty development occurs because of defects in the cells responsible for producing dentin, known as odontoblasts. As a result, the structural integrity and appearance of the teeth are compromised. This condition is significant in dentistry because it can affect a patient’s overall oral health, leading to increased sensitivity and susceptibility to decay. Understanding dentinogenesis imperfecta is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment planning in dental practice. The other terms relate to different dental conditions. Enamel hypoplasia refers to the underdevelopment or incomplete formation of enamel, oligodontia denotes a condition where a person is missing six or more teeth, and hypocalcification involves insufficient mineralization of dental tissues, which can affect enamel or dentin but does not specifically indicate incomplete development of dentin alone.