HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is referred to as the Cervical Third of a tooth?

1. Lower one-third of the root

2. Portion of the crown or root at or near the cervical line

3. Upper one-third of the crown, near the tip

4. Thinnest part of the enamel

The correct answer is: Portion of the crown or root at or near the cervical line

The cervical third of a tooth refers specifically to the portion of the tooth that is located at or near the cervical line, which is the area where the crown and root of the tooth meet. This region is critical in dentistry as it plays a significant role in the overall structure and stability of the tooth. Understanding this area helps in diagnosing and treating various dental conditions, as it is often where plaque can accumulate, leading to issues such as gum disease or root decay. The other provided options do not accurately describe this anatomical feature. The lower one-third of the root pertains more to the root structure rather than the junction between the crown and root. The upper one-third of the crown describes a different region that would be above the cervical line, and mentioning the thinnest part of the enamel does not pertain to the cervical aspect of the tooth but rather to dental enamel thickness, which is a separate anatomical consideration.