HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is extrusion in dentistry?

1. Displacement of a tooth into its socket

2. Displacement of a tooth from its socket due to injury

3. Procedure to trim a denture to simulate normal tissue

4. Concept of open design in pediatric practices

The correct answer is: Displacement of a tooth from its socket due to injury

Extrusion refers to the displacement of a tooth from its socket due to injury, which aligns with the given definition. This condition often occurs in cases of trauma, where the forces applied to the tooth are significant enough to push the tooth upward, partially removing it from its alveolar bone support. This can lead to varying degrees of injury to the periodontium, the supporting structures of the teeth, including ligaments and bone. Understanding extrusion is essential in dental practice because it influences how a dentist approaches treatment for the injured tooth. The degree of extrusion can signify different treatment modalities, such as re-implantation or other corrective measures, depending on the extent of the displacement and the overall health of surrounding tissues. The other definitions presented do not accurately describe the phenomenon of extrusion. Displacement of a tooth into its socket pertains to a different concept known as intrusion. Procedures related to trimming a denture or pediatric practice design concepts are entirely separate areas not connected to the specific dental condition described by extrusion. Recognizing these differences aids in the comprehension of various dental terms and their clinical implications.