Which statement accurately describes occlusal wear compensation via tooth movement?

• A. Root growth is the main mechanism
• B. PDL remodeling moves the tooth axially
• C. Enamel deposition drives eruption
• D. Cementum deposition drives movement

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how teeth compensate for wear by moving through the jaw in response to functional loading. When the occlusal surfaces wear down, the tooth can erupt slightly to maintain occlusion, and this eruption is driven by remodeling of the periodontal ligament. The PDL responds to occlusal forces by resorbing bone on the pressure side and adding bone on the tension side, so the tooth moves along its long axis (axially) to keep contact with the opposing teeth. This axial movement is the mechanism behind wear compensation.

Enamel deposition, cementum deposition, or root growth aren’t the drivers of this adjustment. Enamel is formed before eruption and doesn’t push eruption; cementum deposition doesn’t cause directional tooth movement; and root growth is limited after eruption in adults.