National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

What is the term for an abnormal curvature of the roots of a tooth that can affect x-ray quality?

1. Dentinogenesis

2. Dilaceration

3. Hypodontia

4. Gemination

The correct answer is: Dilaceration

Dilaceration refers to an abnormal curvature or bending of the roots of a tooth, which can significantly impact the quality of dental x-rays. This condition typically occurs due to trauma during the development of the tooth or from adjacent teeth or bone structures exerting pressure on the developing root. When roots are dilacerated, the angle and orientation of the roots can lead to challenges in obtaining clear x-ray images. The irregularity in the curvature can obscure the root structure, making it difficult for dental professionals to assess the health and integrity of the tooth and surrounding bone. In contrast, dentinogenesis pertains to the formation of dentin, and issues with dentinogenesis can lead to problems such as dentinogenesis imperfecta but do not specifically relate to root curvature. Hypodontia refers to the condition of having fewer teeth than normal, not affecting root curvature. Gemination involves the incomplete division of a tooth bud, resulting in an abnormal tooth formation, which again does not directly relate to the curvature of the roots.