Dental Caries and Periodontal Diseases

Dental Caries

• Mutans streptococci (MS) produce lactic acid from fermentable carbohydrates, leading to demineralization
• Secondary (recurrent) caries is difficult to diagnose because it forms in tiny spaces between the tooth and restoration, making it invisible
• Laser caries detectors are the most accurate method for detecting early occlusal caries
• Fluoride prevents dental caries by enhancing remineralization and reducing demineralization of enamel
• Frequent consumption of sugary drinks from a bottle is the most significant risk factor for early childhood caries (ECC)

Periodontal Diseases

• Periodontal disease can exacerbate systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease
• Subgingival calculus is harmful because it provides a reservoir for bacteria and endotoxins close to the periodontal tissues
• Biofilm produces enzymes and toxins that destroy periodontal tissues
• Periodontal disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages because the disease progresses slowly, and symptoms are not immediately noticeable
• Perioscopy visualizes subgingival calculus and root surfaces with high magnification

Preventive Dentistry

• Xylitol inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans and reduces acid production
• Fluoride varnish is preferred as it provides longer-lasting fluoride exposure and is less likely to be swallowed
• Dental sealants physically block bacteria from entering pits and fissures
• A saliva flow rate test assesses the patient’s risk for xerostomia and caries
• CAMBRA assesses caries risk and implement preventive strategies using evidence-based approaches

Advanced Concepts

• Pellicle is a precursor to plaque formation and provides a surface for bacterial adhesion

Dental Office Supplies & Equipment (20 MCQs)

• Proper autoclave operation and maintenance is the most critical factor in maintaining the sterility of dental instruments
• A biological indicator in sterilization confirms the effectiveness of the autoclave
• A digital inventory management system is the most effective way to manage dental inventory
• A dental suction system functions to remove saliva and debris from the oral cavity
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is the most critical supply for infection control in a dental clinic
• A dental bur cuts tooth structure during procedures
• A puncture-resistant sharps container is the most effective way to dispose of sharps in a dental clinic
• A dental curing light hardens composite resin during restorations
• Proper storage conditions is the most critical factor in maintaining the quality of dental materials
• A dental dam isolates the tooth during procedures
• Segregating waste into color-coded bins is the most effective way to manage biomedical waste in a dental clinic
• A dental impression material creates a replica of the oral structures
• Proper lubrication and sterilization is the most critical factor in maintaining the sterility of dental handpieces
• A dental X-ray machine captures images of oral structures
• Maintaining a 6-month supply of critical items is the most effective way to manage dental supplies during a pandemic
• A dental anesthetic cartridge delivers local anesthesia during procedures
• Proper exposure and processing techniques is the most critical factor in maintaining the quality of dental radiographs
• A dental autoclave sterilizes instruments
• Using a digital record-keeping system is the most effective way to manage dental records
• A dental curing light hardens composite resin during restorations

Dental Emergency and Medically Compromised Patients

• Immediate drainage and antibiotic therapy is the most critical step in managing a patient with a dental abscess
• Poor glycemic control is the most common complication of untreated periodontal disease in diabetic patients
• Controlling bleeding and consulting a hematologist is the most critical factor in managing a dental emergency in a patient with a bleeding disorder
• Immediate stabilization and referral to a dentist are the most effective way to manage a patient with a fractured tooth
• Administering epinephrine and calling emergency services is the most critical step in managing a patient with anaphylaxis during a dental procedure
• Pulpitis and abscess formation are the most common complication of untreated dental caries in children
• Monitoring vital signs and avoiding stress is the most critical factor in managing a dental emergency in a patient with a history of myocardial infarction
• Immediate reduction and referral to a specialist is the most effective way to manage a patient with a dislocated jaw
• Administering antihistamines and monitoring the patient is the most critical step in managing a patient with a severe allergic reaction to local anesthesia
• Preterm birth and low birth weight is the most common complication of untreated periodontal disease in pregnant women
• Monitoring blood pressure and avoiding stress is the most critical factor in managing a dental emergency in a patient with a history of stroke
• Immediate referral to a prosthodontist is the most effective way to manage a patient with a broken denture
• Providing pain relief and referring to a dentist is the most critical step in managing a patient with a severe toothache
• Tooth loss and infection are the most common complication of untreated dental caries in elderly patients
• Ensuring access to an inhaler and monitoring breathing is the most critical factor in managing a dental emergency in a patient with a history of asthma
• Reimplanting the tooth immediately and referring to a dentist is the most effective way to manage a patient with a knocked-out tooth
• Avoiding excessive force during treatment is the most critical step in managing a dental emergency and a history of osteoporosis
• Increased risk of systemic infection is the most common complication of untreated periodontal disease in immunocompromised patients
• Ensuring a safe environment and monitoring for seizures is the most critical factor in managing a dental emergency in a patient with a history of epilepsy
• Monitoring blood pressure and avoiding stress is the most effective way to manage a patient with a dental emergency and a history of hypertension