HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the term for the transfer of a tooth from one alveolar socket to another?

1. Transplantation

2. Extraction

3. Reimplantation

4. Implantation

The correct answer is: Transplantation

The correct term for the transfer of a tooth from one alveolar socket to another is transplantation. This procedure involves taking a tooth that is already present in the mouth and repositioning it into a different socket within the same individual. This can be done for various reasons, such as to replace a missing tooth or to realign teeth that may be mispositioned. Reimplantation refers to the process of placing a tooth back into its original socket after it has been knocked out or avulsed, which is different than transferring it to a new socket. Extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket, while implantation usually refers to the insertion of a dental implant, which is an artificial tooth root placed into the jawbone to support a crown or bridge. Thus, the term transplantation specifically captures the essence of moving a tooth between sockets.