HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is an "autograft" in dental surgery?

1. A graft taken from a deceased donor

2. A synthetic material used for grafting

3. A bone graft from another site in the same patient

4. An artificial tooth replacement

The correct answer is: A bone graft from another site in the same patient

An autograft in dental surgery refers to a graft that is taken from another site within the same patient. This method is often used because it minimizes the risk of rejection and complications that may occur with grafts from external sources. Using the patient's own tissue ensures better compatibility, promotes faster integration into the treated area, and enhances healing. In contrast, grafts from deceased donors or synthetic materials may not elicit the same level of biological acceptance as an autograft. An artificial tooth replacement, while relevant in the context of dental procedures, does not pertain to the concept of grafting tissue. Each of these alternatives serves different purposes in dental surgery, but when specifically talking about an "autograft," it is specifically the tissue harvested from the patient themselves.