Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What is Focal Sclerosis Osteomyelitis also known as?

1. Condensing osteitis

2. Necrotic tooth

3. Chronic periodontitis

4. Abscess formation

The correct answer is: Condensing osteitis

Focal Sclerosis Osteomyelitis is commonly recognized as Condensing Osteitis. This condition typically occurs as a localized reaction to chronic inflammation or infection, often associated with pulpal disease of a tooth. The process involves an increase in bone density around the apex of the affected tooth, reflecting the body’s response to the inflammatory stimuli. As the inflammation persists, it leads to the formation of areas of radiopacity seen on radiographs, which is distinctive for condensing osteitis. Understanding this condition is crucial for dental practitioners as it impacts treatment planning and diagnosis, differentiating it from other conditions that involve bone changes, such as abscess formation or necrotic teeth, which involve more acute inflammatory responses or infection rather than sclerotic change.