HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term describes a tapered margin at the tooth cervix for crown placement?

1. Bevel

2. Chamfer

3. Shoulder

4. Undercut

The correct answer is: Chamfer

The term that describes a tapered margin at the tooth cervix for crown placement is chamfer. In dentistry, a chamfer margin is specifically designed to create a smooth and tapered edge, which facilitates proper seating and retention of a dental crown. This design helps to maintain a strong bond between the tooth and the restoration while minimizing the risk of damage to the tooth during crown placement. Chamfer margins are preferred due to their ability to provide a good balance between strength and aesthetics. They allow for an adequate thickness of the restorative material and provide sufficient space for the crown to be well adapted to the tooth structure. This design also contributes to better hygiene as it reduces the risk of plaque accumulation at the margins. The other terms refer to different types of margins or features in dental restorations. Bevels are angled cuts along the edges of dental preparations but do not specifically describe a tapered margin at the cervix. Shoulders refer to a flat preparation used for specific types of crowns that require a broad flat edge, and undercuts are areas where the preparation extends beyond the tooth structure, which can complicate the seating of a restoration. Understanding these terms helps in grasping their specific purposes in dental procedures.