HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the lingual third in dental terminology?

1. A section of the tongue closest to the teeth

2. The back one-third of the tongue

3. The proximal view portion of the surface closest to the lingual side

4. The inner layer of the tongue

The correct answer is: The proximal view portion of the surface closest to the lingual side

The correct choice pertains to the lingual third, which specifically refers to the proximal view portion of the surface closest to the lingual side. In dental terminology, "lingual" is associated with the surface of the tongue or the surface of the teeth that faces the tongue. The description aligns well with how teeth are categorized when observed from certain angles during examination or procedures. The lingual surface is crucial for understanding oral hygiene and treatment as it is often less accessible and more prone to plaque accumulation. In contrast, other options describe different aspects of the tongue or its sections but do not accurately define the term "lingual third." The section of the tongue closest to the teeth does exist but does not capture the specific dental context being asked. The back one-third of the tongue refers to a general area rather than a specific surface related to dental terminology. The inner layer of the tongue addresses the anatomy of the tongue itself rather than its relation to dental surfaces. Overall, the definition of the lingual third in terms of proximity to the lingual side of the teeth is what makes that choice the most accurate.