HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is a biopsy in the dental field?

1. A process of cleaning teeth

2. A technique for whitening teeth

3. Removing tissue for examination

4. A method to treat cavities

The correct answer is: Removing tissue for examination

A biopsy in the dental field refers to the process of removing tissue for examination. This procedure is crucial in diagnosing various conditions that may affect the oral cavity, including oral cancers, lesions, or other abnormalities. By examining the removed tissue under a microscope, healthcare professionals can determine whether any harmful or disease-causing cells are present, leading to a more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment plan. The other options, while relevant to dental care, do not accurately define a biopsy. Cleaning teeth relates to dental hygiene practices, whitening teeth pertains to cosmetic procedures aimed at improving the shade of one's teeth, and treating cavities involves restorative dentistry techniques to repair tooth decay. However, these do not involve the removal and examination of tissue to assess health conditions.