HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term describes the bleeding that may occur when a tooth is partially dislocated?

1. Extruded luxation

2. Concussion

3. Subluxation

4. Lateral luxation

The correct answer is: Subluxation

The term that describes the bleeding that may occur when a tooth is partially dislocated is subluxation. This condition refers to a situation where the tooth has lost some of its periodontal support but is still in its socket, leading to mobility. The partial dislocation can cause injury to the surrounding tissues, and this is often accompanied by bleeding due to the trauma inflicted on the periodontal ligaments and surrounding gum tissue. In contrast, extruded luxation involves a tooth being partially displaced out of its socket, which usually results in a more severe form of dislocation. A concussion pertains to a tooth being sensitive or painful, often without displacement, and does not necessarily cause significant bleeding. Lateral luxation describes a situation where the tooth is displaced laterally into the alveolar bone, which can lead to different types of injury and complications, but is distinct from the scenarios involving subluxation. Therefore, subluxation is the most accurate term associated with the scenario described in the question.