HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the term for an abnormally small jaw?

1. Micrognathia

2. Macrostomia

3. Mandibulism

4. Hypoplasia

The correct answer is: Micrognathia

The term that refers to an abnormally small jaw is micrognathia. This condition involves the underdevelopment of the mandible, which can result in a smaller than normal jaw size compared to the maxilla (upper jaw). Micrognathia can affect dental alignment and occlusion, leading to potential difficulties with chewing and speech, as well as aesthetic concerns. It is often evaluated during developmental assessments in pediatrics and can be associated with certain congenital conditions. The other terms provided refer to different conditions: macrostomia describes an abnormally large mouth opening, mandibulism is not a commonly used term in dental terminology and may be confused with mandibular issues, while hypoplasia involves underdevelopment but typically refers to tissues or organs, such as teeth or enamel, rather than specifically to jaw size.