HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the periodontium?

1. The sac around the tooth root

2. The lining of the mouth

3. Specialized tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth

4. The inner pulp of the tooth

The correct answer is: Specialized tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth

The periodontium refers to the specialized tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. It plays a crucial role in dental health, as it provides stability to the teeth, facilitates their attachment to the jawbone, and contributes to the overall structure of the oral cavity. The periodontium includes the gums (gingiva), the periodontal ligament, the cementum, and the alveolar bone. Each of these components works together to maintain the integrity and health of the teeth and surrounding structures. Understanding this term is fundamental in dentistry, as issues with the periodontium, such as periodontal disease, can lead to tooth mobility and loss. The other choices represent different aspects of oral anatomy but do not encompass the comprehensive role of the periodontium in supporting teeth. For instance, a sac around the tooth root is indicative of structures like a cyst or abscess rather than the supportive tissues, while the lining of the mouth is referred to as the oral mucosa and does not specifically address support. The inner pulp of the tooth is important for nourishment and sensation, but it is distinctly different from the supportive tissues that make up the periodontium.