HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is acidosis?

1. An increase in bone density

2. A state of body dehydration

3. An acid-base imbalance of the body

4. A condition characterized by high blood sugar

The correct answer is: An acid-base imbalance of the body

Acidosis refers to a condition in which there is an excess of acid in the body fluids, leading to an acid-base imbalance. This imbalance can disturb various physiological functions, as the body's normal pH level is tightly regulated around 7.4. When acidosis occurs, it can result from a variety of factors, such as respiratory issues that cause an accumulation of carbon dioxide or metabolic processes that produce excess acid. Understanding acidosis is crucial in dentistry and medicine as it can influence overall health and potentially affect dental treatments, especially in patients with chronic conditions or comorbidities. Maintaining proper pH levels is essential for metabolic functions, and deviations can lead to systemic effects that need to be addressed by health professionals. The other choices do not accurately define acidosis; an increase in bone density relates to skeletal health, dehydration pertains to fluid balance rather than acid-base status, and high blood sugar characterizes hyperglycemia, which is unrelated to the concept of acid-base balance.