HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the condition called when the tooth does not move but the gingival attachment moves farther apically?

1. Active eruption.

2. Passive eruption.

3. Retreated eruption.

4. Delayed eruption.

The correct answer is: Passive eruption.

The condition described, where the tooth remains stationary while the gingival attachment recedes further apically, is known as passive eruption. This process occurs as the gums move away from the tooth surface, creating an appearance of tooth elongation. It can occur naturally as part of the aging process or can be influenced by periodontal disease, where the supportive tissues around the tooth deteriorate, leading to gum recession. In contrast, active eruption refers to the movement of the tooth into the oral cavity as it grows, which is not applicable here since the tooth is not moving. Retreated eruption is not a recognized dental term, while delayed eruption typically relates to a tooth that has not erupted into the mouth at the expected time, also not fitting this situation. Therefore, passive eruption accurately describes the movement of the gingival attachment without the corresponding movement of the tooth.