HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

When viewing a tooth from a proximal angle, what does the term "lingual third" indicate?

1. A section of the tooth nearest the oral cavity

2. The top section of the tooth

3. The bottom section past the root

4. The section closest to the tongue

The correct answer is: The section closest to the tongue

The term "lingual third" refers specifically to the area of a tooth that is oriented towards the tongue when viewed from a proximal angle. In dental terminology, the word "lingual" is used to describe the surface of the tooth that faces the tongue. Therefore, when distinguishing between different sections or thirds of a tooth, the "lingual third" is that part of the tooth closest to the tongue. This concept is significant in dentistry as it assists dental professionals in identifying specific areas for treatment, communication, and documentation regarding dental health and procedures. The other options describe different aspects of tooth orientation but do not capture the precise meaning of "lingual." The section nearest the oral cavity refers to the buccal or facial surfaces, while the top section of the tooth describes the occlusal area, and the bottom section pertains to the root, neither of which specifically denotes the relationship to the tongue.