How Do You Spell ALVEOLAR RESORPTION?

1. Alveolar resorption is a dental term used to describe the natural or pathological process of bone loss in the alveolar ridge, which is the part of the jawbone that supports and anchors the teeth. Specifically, it refers to the progressive shrinking or reduction in the height and width of the alveolar bone due to the loss of teeth or lack of functional stimulation.

   When teeth are lost or extracted, the alveolar ridge is no longer subjected to the normal forces associated with chewing and biting. As a result, the body recognizes that the bone is no longer necessary to support the missing teeth, and starts to resorb or break down the bone tissue. This process can occur due to natural aging, but it is often accelerated in cases of tooth extraction or tooth loss. If left untreated, alveolar resorption can lead to significant bone loss that can affect the stability, position, and successful placement of dental implants or dentures.

   Various factors can influence the rate and severity of alveolar resorption, including the number of missing teeth, the duration of tooth loss, the presence of gum disease or periodontal infections, and individual variations in bone metabolism. Regular dental check-ups and maintenance of proper oral hygiene are crucial in preventing or managing alveolar resorption. Treatment options for alveolar resorption may involve dental prosthetics, bone grafting, or implant-supported restorations to restore function and aesthetics to the affected area.

Common Misspellings for ALVEOLAR RESORPTION

The word "alveolar" comes from the Latin word "alveolus", which means "small hollow" or "socket". In anatomy, alveolar refers to the sockets in the jawbone that hold the teeth.

The term "resorption" originates from the Latin word "resorbere", which means "to suck back". In a medical context, resorption refers to the process of the body absorbing or breaking down tissue.

Therefore, "alveolar resorption" can be understood as the process in which the bone tissue in the dental alveoli or sockets is gradually broken down or absorbed by the body. This term is commonly used in dentistry to describe the loss of bone in the jaw due to the lack of teeth or other factors.