HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is pericementitis?

1. Infection of the gum tissue

2. Inflammation of the alveoli around the tooth

3. Decay of the tooth enamel

4. Wear of the dental fillings

The correct answer is: Inflammation of the alveoli around the tooth

Pericementitis refers specifically to the inflammation of the periapical area surrounding the root of a tooth, particularly affecting the periodontal ligament and the bony structures that hold the teeth in place. This condition is typically associated with trauma or infection and can result from periodontal disease or abscess formation. Understanding the context of the other options helps clarify the accuracy of the selected answer. An infection of the gum tissue pertains more closely to conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis, which focus primarily on the gum rather than the supportive structures. The decay of tooth enamel describes caries, which affects the tooth structure itself, and wear of dental fillings relates to the degradation of restorative materials rather than an inflammatory process. Hence, the precise definition of pericementitis aligns with the chosen answer, which accurately encapsulates the condition involving inflammation in the area surrounding the tooth roots.