HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is a key indication of pulpal necrosis in a dental exam?

1. Open bite formation

2. Presence of a dental abscess

3. Severe discoloration of the tooth

4. Presence of plaque

The correct answer is: Presence of a dental abscess

A dental abscess is a crucial indication of pulpal necrosis because it signifies infection in the tooth's pulp that has led to the formation of pus. When the pulp tissue dies, bacterial infection can occur, resulting in localized inflammation and the creation of an abscess, which typically presents as a swollen area around the affected tooth. This can also be associated with pain and sometimes systemic symptoms, indicating that the pulpal tissue is no longer healthy. In contrast, while severe discoloration of the tooth can suggest pulp damage, it does not necessarily confirm necrosis without additional clinical findings like an abscess or significant pain. Open bite formation and the presence of plaque are related to other dental issues but are not direct indicators of pulpal necrosis. Thus, detecting a dental abscess provides strong evidence of necrosis and the accompanying pathological changes in the pulp.