American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

When leveling tooth marginal ridges during orthodontic treatment, it is essential for them to correspond to the position of the alveolar bone. This relationship is crucial because the alveolar bone serves as the foundation for the teeth; therefore, the dental arch should align properly with it. Proper leveling ensures that the position of the teeth will be stable and functionally appropriate, promoting a balanced occlusion and minimizing the risk of periodontal issues.

The alveolar bone influences the overall morphology of the dental arch, and the teeth should be aligned in a way that respects the underlying bone structure. When marginal ridges are leveled with regard to the alveolar bone, it can also facilitate proper dental esthetics and function, as the height and contour of the bone often dictate how the teeth should be positioned for optimal function and aesthetics.

In contrast, other considerations such as the position of adjacent teeth, the gums, or the tongue do not have the same foundational role in stabilizing the position of the teeth and may contribute more to aesthetic or functional aspects rather than the necessary biomimetic alignment with the bony support.