HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of dental material may involve an osteotomy procedure?

1. Orthodontic appliances

2. Dental crowns

3. Tooth implants

4. Bridges

The correct answer is: Tooth implants

The correct answer involves tooth implants because the placement of dental implants often requires an osteotomy, which is a surgical procedure that entails cutting the bone to enable the proper positioning of the implant. This is essential in situations where there is insufficient bone density or volume to support the implant securely. In the case of tooth implants, an osteotomy prepares the jawbone by creating a space or site where the implant can be placed. This is a critical step to ensure that the implant integrates properly with the surrounding bone, which is vital for the long-term success of the implant procedure. Other choices, such as orthodontic appliances, dental crowns, and bridges, typically do not require osteotomy procedures. Orthodontic appliances are designed to move teeth gradually into desired positions without necessitating surgical alteration of the jawbone. Dental crowns are used to cap damaged teeth, and while they may be part of restorative work involving implants, their placement does not require bone surgery. Bridges are used to replace missing teeth but do not involve altering the bone structure; they rely on the existing teeth for support instead.