HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term describes a tooth's main supporting structure?

1. Cementum

2. Dentin

3. Root

4. Enamel

The correct answer is: Root

The term that describes a tooth's main supporting structure is the root. The root anchors the tooth in the jawbone and is vital for stability and proper function. It extends beneath the surface of the gum and embeds into the alveolar bone, providing the tooth with the necessary support to withstand forces during biting and chewing. In contrast, cementum is a calcified tissue covering the tooth's root surface but is not the primary supporting structure itself; it helps anchor the periodontal ligaments. Dentin, which forms the bulk of the tooth structure beneath the enamel, is not involved in support but rather provides strength and resilience to the tooth. Enamel is the hard, outer layer of the tooth that protects against wear and decay, but it does not contribute to the support of the tooth in the jaw.