Ace HOSA Dental Terms Quiz 2026 – Drill Your Way to Dentistry Success!

Root resorption refers to the pathological process in which the structure of a tooth's root is broken down or destroyed. This process can occur due to various factors, including trauma, infection, or pressure from adjacent teeth or orthodontic treatment. During resorption, the body’s natural mechanisms remove mineralized tissue, which can lead to potential tooth mobility and loss if not addressed. Recognizing root resorption is critical in dental practice since early identification and intervention can prevent further complications and retain the tooth’s integrity whenever possible.

The other options do not accurately describe root resorption. Reinforcement of tooth structure and growth of new root tissue suggest processes of building or healing, rather than breakdown. Replacement of tooth roots with implants involves entirely different processes related to extraction and prosthetic solutions, rather than the natural resorption of existing root structure.