HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is a cross-bite?

1. A condition where teeth are properly aligned

2. A condition that occurs when a tooth is not properly aligned with its opposing tooth

3. A dental cleaning procedure

4. A type of dental filling

The correct answer is: A condition that occurs when a tooth is not properly aligned with its opposing tooth

A cross-bite is defined as a condition that occurs when a tooth is not properly aligned with its opposing tooth. This misalignment can affect one tooth or multiple teeth, commonly involving upper teeth that bite down inside the lower teeth. This condition can lead to various dental issues, including uneven wear of teeth, jaw discomfort, and difficulty in chewing. Proper alignment is crucial for effective biting and chewing, as well as maintaining overall oral health. When there’s a cross-bite, it can create imbalances in the bite that may affect the jaw’s function and lead to further complications. Identifying and addressing cross-bites early in dental care is important to prevent these potential problems from escalating. In contrast, the other options describe unrelated concepts in dentistry, such as proper alignment, dental cleaning procedures, and types of dental fillings, none of which accurately define the condition characterized by a misalignment of opposing teeth.