HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What does 'flexion' refer to in dentistry?

1. The straightening of a joint

2. Bending of a joint

3. A technique for teeth alignment

4. A method for performing oral surgery

The correct answer is: Bending of a joint

Flexion in dentistry refers specifically to the bending of a joint, which is the correct understanding of the term. In anatomical terms, flexion describes a movement that decreases the angle between two body parts, such as bending the elbow or knee joints. In the context of dental practice, understanding flexion is important as it relates to the movements of the jaw (temporomandibular joint) and facial muscles during various dental procedures, such as the opening and closing of the mouth. While straightening of a joint corresponds to the term "extension" and is not applicable in this context, the other choices also stem from different aspects of dental practice. Techniques for teeth alignment generally involve orthodontics, and methods for performing oral surgery encompass a wide range of surgical procedures, none of which specifically define or utilize the term flexion. The choice regarding bending of a joint captures the essence of the term as it pertains to functional movements within dentistry.