HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is an articulator?

1. A device that holds dental impressions

2. A mechanical device that simulates jaw joint actions

3. A tool used for dental cleaning

4. A material used for tooth replacement

The correct answer is: A mechanical device that simulates jaw joint actions

An articulator is a mechanical device that simulates jaw joint actions, which is crucial for dentistry, particularly in the fields of prosthodontics and orthodontics. It is designed to replicate the movements of a patient's jaws, allowing dental professionals to analyze and create accurate models of how the upper and lower teeth interact. This functionality is essential for designing dental prosthetics such as dentures, crowns, and bridges, ensuring that they fit properly and function effectively during natural movements such as chewing and speaking. In contrast, devices that hold dental impressions serve a different purpose, as they focus on capturing the structural details of a patient's teeth and surrounding tissues, rather than simulating movement. Tools used for dental cleaning are related to hygiene and maintenance rather than mechanical functions, and materials used for tooth replacement refer to substances like dental alloys or ceramic materials, which are not mechanical devices but rather components used in the construction of dental appliances.