What kind of concerns are associated with pica?

Pica is a condition characterized by the consumption of non-nutritive items such as dirt, clay, chalk, or even paper. The choice that highlights the concerns associated with pica is the potential for dental trauma and oral lacerations. When individuals engage in the consumption of hard or sharp objects, the risk of damaging oral tissues increases significantly. This can lead to lacerations in the mouth, damage to the gums, or even fractures of the teeth due to the hardness of the substances being chewed or swallowed.

Understanding pica's implications is crucial for healthcare professionals and caregivers, as the behavior can pose serious risks to dental health. While other options relate to oral health issues in some capacity, they do not directly address the acute risks associated with the specific acts of eating non-food items that characterize pica behavior. This highlights the particular danger associated with such consumption, making dental trauma and oral lacerations the most relevant concern.