Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What term describes the condition where a rodent's teeth do not align properly?

1. Malformation

2. Bruxism

3. Malocclusion

4. Periodontal disease

The correct answer is: Malocclusion

The term that describes the condition where a rodent's teeth do not align properly is malocclusion. This condition occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not fit together as they should, often leading to dental issues such as overgrowth of the teeth, difficulty eating, and other complications. Rodents have continuously growing teeth that require proper alignment to be effectively worn down by normal chewing habits. If malocclusion occurs, it can affect their ability to gnaw and consume food properly, which is vital for their health and well-being. Understanding malocclusion is crucial for anyone working in a veterinary or laboratory animal care setting since it emphasizes the need for proper dental care in these animals. In contrast, the other terms do not specifically relate to the misalignment of teeth. Malformation refers more generally to a structural defect or anomaly. Bruxism is the involuntary grinding of teeth, which is separate from alignment issues. Periodontal disease pertains to the diseases of the tissues surrounding the teeth, not the alignment of the teeth themselves.