Which statement is true about horizontal bone loss?

• A. It is characterized by even/uniform apical migration of the alveolar crest
• B. It involves angular defects
• C. It is limited to furcation areas
• D. It occurs only in primary teeth

Answer: (A)

Horizontal bone loss involves uniform, circumferential loss of supporting bone around teeth, so the alveolar crest migrates apically in a relatively even manner all around the tooth. This creates a flat, horizontal decline rather than localized pockets. That’s why the statement describing even/apical migration of the alveolar crest best fits horizontal bone loss.

Angular defects, by contrast, are characteristic of vertical bone loss, where bone loss occurs more on one aspect of the root leaving an angular pocket. Horizontal bone loss is not limited to furcation areas and can affect multiple areas of the dentition, and it can occur in both primary and permanent teeth.