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What occurs during external resorption?

  1. Tooth enamel strengthens

  2. Supportive bone around the tooth dissolves

  3. The pulp chamber enlarges

  4. The tooth develops a cavity

The correct answer is: Supportive bone around the tooth dissolves

External resorption refers to the process where the supportive bone surrounding a tooth begins to dissolve or erode. This can happen for various reasons, including trauma, orthodontic treatment, or the presence of infection. As the bone resorbs, it may contribute to changes in tooth stability and positioning, and can ultimately affect the health of the tooth. The correct response emphasizes the underlying physiological changes that impact the dental structure during external resorption, contrasting with other options that do not accurately represent the process. The strengthening of tooth enamel pertains to a different dental phenomenon, while enlargement of the pulp chamber is more closely related to dental pulp exposure or infection. The development of a cavity involves carious activity and does not correlate with external resorption at all. Thus, the focus on the dissolution of supportive bone truly captures the essence of external resorption.