HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of injury can result from a hard impact, causing the tooth to loosen with little need for treatment?

1. Avulsion

2. Concussion

3. Subluxation

4. Dislocation

The correct answer is: Concussion

In cases of dental injuries, a concussion refers to a type of trauma where a tooth is loosened due to a hard impact, but remains in place without displacement. The tooth itself does not get removed from the socket, which distinguishes it from injuries that significantly alter the position of the tooth or involve its removal. In a concussion, the periodontal ligament may be affected, but treatment is often minimal, as healing can occur naturally. While other terms such as avulsion, subluxation, and dislocation describe more severe conditions, they involve greater damage to the tooth structure and surrounding tissues or complete relocation of the tooth from its socket. Avulsion specifically means the complete removal of the tooth from its socket, while subluxation indicates a partial displacement of the tooth. Dislocation, in dental terms, usually describes the displacement of a tooth out of its normal position but not necessarily retained in its socket. Therefore, a concussion is best described as a less severe form of injury where the tooth is loosened, indicating a relatively straightforward recovery process.