HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the definition of intrusion in relation to dental injuries?

1. Displacement of a tooth from its socket

2. Displacement of a tooth into its socket

3. Single use or multiple use surgical instruments

4. Removal of root fragments from the socket

The correct answer is: Displacement of a tooth into its socket

Intrusion refers specifically to the displacement of a tooth into its socket, which occurs when a tooth is driven into the underlying bone due to trauma or impact. This injury is characterized by the tooth being pushed deeper than its normal position rather than being forced out of the socket. Intruded teeth often require careful assessment and management, as they may have varying degrees of damage to the supporting structures and nerves. Displacement of a tooth from its socket, mentioned in the first choice, describes a different type of dental trauma known as avulsion. The third choice pertains to surgical instruments and is unrelated to dental injuries, while the fourth choice addresses the removal of root fragments, which pertains more to the management of broken roots rather than the specific trauma of a tooth being intruded. Thus, the correct definition of intrusion is accurately captured as the displacement of a tooth deeper into its socket.