HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What indicates inflamed or irritated pulp tissue during direct dentin stimulation?

1. Absence of pain

2. Presence of pain

3. Sensitivity to cold drinks

4. Discoloration of the tooth

The correct answer is: Presence of pain

The presence of pain during direct dentin stimulation is a strong indicator of inflamed or irritated pulp tissue. When the pulp is healthy, stimulation of the dentin typically does not elicit pain. However, if the pulp is inflamed, such as in cases of pulpitis, even mild stimulation can provoke discomfort or pain. This response highlights the sensitivity of the pulp to changes in its environment, including pressure and thermal stimuli. In contrast, the absence of pain would suggest that the pulp is likely not inflamed, while sensitivity to cold drinks may be related to other dental issues such as exposed dentin or tooth sensitivity, rather than directly indicating pulp inflammation. Discoloration of the tooth can also suggest various conditions, but it is not a definitive indicator of pulp irritation during stimulation.