Where would the root of a mandibular third molar be if it has displaced through the lingual plate?

The root of a mandibular third molar that has displaced through the lingual plate would indeed be located in a position that is dorsal (toward the back or top in anatomical orientation) and lateral (away from the midline of the body). When the root penetrates through the lingual plate, it typically moves toward the floor of the mouth, which corresponds to a dorsal orientation relative to the base of the tongue while being positioned laterally concerning the midline of the mandible.

In this scenario, the dislodged root could potentially lie above the mylohyoid muscle and be in close proximity to the lingual nerve and surrounding tissues. The description of this position being both dorsal and lateral accurately reflects how abnormal positioning occurs when there is such a displacement in the lingual area. This understanding is critical during surgical procedures or when diagnosing complications related to the third molars.