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Questions and Answers
Which material is commonly used for dental impressions?
What is the primary purpose of poured model materials in dentistry?
Which property of dental materials is crucial for determining their longevity in the oral environment?
What type of restorative materials is primarily used for filling cavities?
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In dental applications, which thermal property is critical for ensuring comfort for the patient?
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What is a disadvantage of using ceramic materials in restorative dentistry?
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Which dental material is noted for its chemical bonding to tooth structure?
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What is the main advantage of using thermoplastic materials in dental applications?
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Which type of material is commonly used for dental impressions to capture the shape of teeth accurately?
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What is an important mechanical property of dental materials that ensures they can withstand occlusal forces?
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Which restorative material is commonly utilized in dental procedures for its aesthetic appearance?
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Which property of dental materials is crucial for preventing temperature changes from affecting the patient's comfort?
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What is typically used to create poured models from dental impressions?
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Which mechanical property indicates the ability of a dental material to return to its original shape after deformation?
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In terms of thermal properties, which characteristic is most desirable for dental materials used in restorations?
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What type of material is most frequently used in the fabrication of crowns due to its strength and durability?
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What is the primary purpose of Sabrina wearing personal protective equipment?
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What common concern does Sabrina address with a new patient?
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Why does Sabrina take extra time to explain at-home care to patients?
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What function does the rubber dam serve in dental procedures?
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Sabrina uses laptops at each station primarily for which reason?
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What is the importance of maintaining awareness of government regulations in a dental office?
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When assisting with a crown procedure, which skill does Sabrina apply to keep Terrell relaxed?
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What role does Sabrina play in the billing process after assisting patients?
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What is the expected number of job openings for dental assistants each year from 2022 to 2032?
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How have Baby Boomers affected the current state of dental visits compared to previous generations?
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What benefits do dental assistants provide to dentists during procedures?
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What sets the newer generation of dentists apart from their retiring counterparts regarding dental assistants?
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What is one reason for the anticipated growth of positions for dental assistants?
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According to the American Dental Association, what aspect of dental assistants' work reflects its comprehensiveness?
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Which task is NOT typically performed by dental assistants?
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What contributes to the creation of new openings for dental assistants each year?
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What is the primary motto of the dental clinic where Sabrina works?
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What does the office do from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. each day?
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Which patient is Sabrina particularly excited to see today?
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What task does Sabrina undertake after turning on the computers?
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What activity occurs during the monthly staff meeting after lunch?
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What percentage of individuals typically work more than 40 hours a week in dental assisting?
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What is one of the key roles of a dental assistant in patient care?
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Which sign might a dental assistant first detect during an examination?
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What area of a dental office is primarily focused on patient interactions and comfort?
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Which equipment is NOT typically found in treatment areas of a dental office?
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How do dental assistants contribute to recognizing broader health issues?
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What is a primary responsibility of dental assistants in the office?
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Which common issue might a dental assistant help identify in patients?
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What is a significant emotional aspect of dental professionals' work?
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What is a common feature of the administrative area in a dental office?
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What is the primary benefit of hiring dental assistants in a dental practice?
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Which dental specialty focuses on policy-making and community health rather than direct patient care?
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What type of procedures do endodontists specialize in?
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What role do dental laboratories play in a dental practice?
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In what way do insurance companies impact dental practices?
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Which area would be expected to contain workbenches and storage for dental supplies?
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What is the significance of dental assistants in terms of their skills?
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What common feature distinguishes private offices in a dental practice?
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How do dental practices typically cater to specific markets?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of a sterilization center in a dental office?
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What factor has contributed to the high growth rate in the dental assisting field?
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Which statement accurately reflects the hiring trends of dental assistants by dentists?
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What is one of the primary responsibilities of a dental assistant?
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How often do dental assistants typically work?
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What might be the first responsibility of a dental assistant in a professional healthcare team?
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Approximately how many job openings for dental assistants are expected annually from 2022 to 2032?
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What incident in 1990 prompted a change in dental safety protocols?
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Which of the following is NOT a duty typically assigned to dental assistants?
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What change in the dental industry emerged prominently in the 1990s?
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What was a significant outcome of fluoride use linked to residents in Colorado Springs?
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Where should information about a patient's allergies be documented?
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Which form would you use to document a patient's periodontal condition?
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What is primarily included in a treatment plan sheet?
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Which scenario illustrates implied consent from a patient?
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What type of information is found in a dental health history form?
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Where should the patient's medical history be recorded?
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In which document would you most likely find a record of a patient's vital signs?
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Where would a dental assistant document the problem number, tooth number, and treatment details?
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Which form should contain information about the treatments discussed with the patient and their consent?
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Where would the dental assistant record the patient's payment arrangements and fees for treatments?
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How many times should you brush each tooth according to the 2/2 rule?
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What condition is referred to as bad breath?
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What can result from excessive fluoride intake in children whose teeth are forming?
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What type of brush is designed to clean in gaps or around dental work?
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What is the primary component from which fluoride additives are derived?
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What should a student do before attempting a Quiz?
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What is required when submitting Quiz answers in order for them to be processed?
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Which method is NOT mentioned for Quiz submission?
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What should a student do after completing a Quiz?
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What is the primary purpose of the Scanner Quiz Instructions?
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What is the primary function of a periodontal probe in dental procedures?
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Which category of tools is primarily used for placing and condensing dental materials?
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Which property is essential for a dental material to withstand mechanical stress during use?
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In terms of organic materials in dentistry, what is typically a concern when choosing dental cements?
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What aspect of stress and strain is particularly relevant in the context of dental material performance?
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Which characteristic is critical for a dental cement used in crowns and bridges?
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What does the term 'strain' refer to in the context of dental materials?
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Which property best describes the ability of an organic filler within a dental material?
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In mechanical property testing, what is the role of stress in evaluating dental materials?
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What is the significance of the 'organic resin matrix' in dental materials?
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Which factor can affect the performance of dental materials under stress?
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Which dental cement type is known for its soothing effect on tooth pulp?
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What is the relationship between viscosity and the flow of dental materials?
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Which term refers to the ability of a material to conduct electricity?
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What type of cement is known for its ability to bond chemically with tooth structure?
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Which mechanical property describes a material's ability to withstand deformation from stress?
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What is a characteristic of organic materials used in dental applications?
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Which term refers to the closeness of two materials joined together?
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What process is used to remove enamel or dentin for better adhesion during dental procedures?
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What is the role of a bonding agent in dental materials?
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Which type of dental material hardens by both mixing and light exposure?
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Which property affects the ability of a material to flow and fill spaces in dental applications?
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What aspect does stress and strain primarily relate to in dental materials?
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Which dental material is typically used to create a base for dentures in preliminary impressions?
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What is the main characteristic of elastic strain in dental materials?
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What is a key property of dental stone as indicated in dental applications?
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Which impression material is known for changing from a solution to a gel state for accurate tissue reproduction?
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Which wax type is used specifically for capturing the relationship between maxillary and mandibular arches?
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Which feature characterizes most organic materials used in dentistry?
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What feature allows a cutting bur to have a high level of cutting capabilities?
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What describes the purpose of provisional restorations in dental care?
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Which part of a bur connects the cutting head to the shank?
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Which type of dental impression material exhibits properties of stress and strain during the impression-taking process?
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In which handpiece is a friction-grip shank typically used?
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What is the purpose of an air abrasive instrument in dental procedures?
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Which material is primarily used for making diagnostic models in dentistry?
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What is a crucial mechanical property that ductile dental materials must possess?
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How do laboratory burs differ from cutting burs in dental practices?
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Which type of bur is characterized by a long, straight shank used with a low-speed handpiece?
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What kind of shank is a latch-type design considered to be?
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What is one primary function of tray systems in a dental setting?
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Which feature of air abrasive instruments helps ensure precision in treatment?
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What distinguishes cutting burs from polishing burs in terms of design?
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What is a primary benefit of electronic scheduling software (ESS) in dental offices?
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How can a scheduler effectively manage appointments for hearing-impaired patients?
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What challenge can arise from overbooking appointments in a dental office?
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What is a common feature found in modern electronic scheduling systems?
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What is an essential action a scheduler needs to take when using any scheduling system?
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What is a primary advantage of using electronic scheduling systems in a dental office?
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What challenge might arise from overbooking appointments in a dental office?
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Which of the following is a recommended strategy for patient management during busy office hours?
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What equipment maintenance task is essential for ensuring the functionality of copiers in a dental office?
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Which feature of advanced telephone systems can enhance communication in a dental practice?
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What is an effective scheduling technique when managing a busy dental office?
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Which is a common misconception about maintaining office equipment like scanners?
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What method can be used to improve patient management for follow-up appointments?
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What is a primary component of a recall appointment?
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Which strategy can help maintain an effective recall system?
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What is an important factor when designing a recall system?
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How often are most preventive dental appointments typically scheduled?
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What is a potential challenge of overbooking appointments?
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Which element is essential for tracking patient responses in a recall system?
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What aspect should be simplified for an effective recall system?
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Which of the following is NOT typically included in the discussion during recall appointments?
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What should be done if a patient has specific needs regarding their recall schedule?
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Which of the following is a standard practice for maintaining equipment in a dental office?
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What is a key reason for efficiently scheduling dental appointments?
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Which task is likely to contribute to staff stress and patient dissatisfaction?
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What is an essential aspect of maintaining administrative equipment in a dental office?
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How can a dental assistant accurately learn about the timing of dental procedures?
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What is a significant consequence of mis-scheduling dental appointments?
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What is one advantage of using electronic scheduling systems in a dental office?
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What is a common challenge faced by dental assistants regarding patient appointments?
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Which practice can enhance the upkeep of administrative equipment in a dental office?
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What is an effective way a dental assistant can prevent overbooking patients?
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What can be a consequence of having unclean or poorly maintained equipment in a dental office?
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What information did Mary forget to enter while scheduling Sandy Peters' appointment?
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Which tool can be utilized for managing after-hour dental emergencies?
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What is a primary reason why some patients require reminders for regular dental care?
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What is a significant function of a preventive recall system in a dental practice?
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How has technology affected the handling of appointment scheduling in dental offices?
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What is a common challenge faced by dental offices when managing patient appointments?
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Which piece of equipment is essential for scanning records into digital files in a dental practice?
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What essential role do administrative dental assistants (DAs) play in maintaining patient care quality?
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What key advantage does a paperless system provide to dental practices?
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What function of a dental office is significantly impacted by the use of electronic scheduling systems?
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What is the primary type of pathogens that the regulations regarding BBPs focus on?
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When an employee chooses not to receive recommended vaccinations, what must the infection control agent do?
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How often must BBP training be conducted?
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Which vaccine must an employee be offered within 10 days of being assigned duties that may expose them to BBPs?
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What is the recommended alcohol concentration for hand sanitizers to be most effective?
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Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for dental healthcare personnel?
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What is a significant reason why prescription glasses are inadequate as eye protection for DHCPs?
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Which is NOT a recommended vaccination for dental healthcare personnel by the CDC?
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What is the purpose of using the HVE in dental procedures?
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What type of dental dam clamp is specifically used for pediatric patients?
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Which grasp is recommended for transferring larger items during a dental procedure?
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Before disinfecting a clinical surface, what must be done first?
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What is the appropriate action if plaque and debris are found in the area where a dental dam will be placed?
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Protective masks must provide a minimum of how much efficiency for particles that are between 3 to 5 micrometers in diameter?
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Which item can be reused if properly cleaned and disinfected?
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Which is NOT a symptom of a latex allergy?
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Environmental surface disinfectants are primarily regulated by which agency?
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Manufacturer recommendations for disinfectant use do not need to be followed closely for which area?
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Surface barriers should be changed at least after which event?
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Biohazardous waste is also referred to as which type of waste?
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What is the primary purpose of a holding solution for dental instruments?
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What function does an ultrasonic cleaner serve in a dental office?
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To be effective, autoclaves must achieve which temperature range?
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Which system is responsible for protecting the body from diseases?
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Inherited, acquired, passive, and naturally acquired are types of what?
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Which agency is primarily concerned with the prevention of chronic disease?
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What is BBP an abbreviation for in a health context?
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What are the two key OSHA standards focused on in workplace safety?
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Which type of contact does the BBP Standard cover in healthcare settings?
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Which virus commonly causes sores in the mouth and swollen gums?
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What is the main effect of viral hepatitis on the body?
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Which disease transmission mode is reflected by the risk of spreading HIV through patient care?
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Tuberculosis, Legionnaires' disease, and tetanus belong to which category?
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Bacteria, fungi, and viruses are examples of what?
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When microorganisms do not cause harm to the body, they are referred to as what?
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Which mode of transmission refers to the chain of infection after the disease enters the body?
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Indirect, splash and spatter, and airborne are types of what?
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What type of immunity is provided by vaccinations?
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The strength of a pathogen is referred to as its what?
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Parenteral transmission means bacteria can spread through which area of the body?
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Hepatitis A is primarily spread through which method?
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Which disease is not a concern for DHCP and does not require immunization?
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What makes bacterial endospores particularly difficult to eliminate?
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Which term describes the division of a tooth in a labial or buccal-lingual direction?
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What does the term 'labial surface' specifically refer to?
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Which area of the tooth is referred to as the 'apical third'?
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What does the term 'distal' refer to in dental terminology?
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Which term is used to describe an imaginary line formed where any two crown surfaces intersect?
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What structure is associated with the area directly between the buccal mucosa and the gums?
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Which glands are located below the ears and are responsible for saliva production?
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Which term describes the dry mouth condition often associated with a decreased saliva flow?
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What is the function of the palatine tonsils in the oral cavity?
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What anatomical feature runs down the middle of the hard palate?
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Where does Stensen’s duct release saliva?
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Which of these describes the vermillion zone?
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What term describes the flap of tissue on the buccal mucosa that directs saliva to Wharton’s ducts?
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What is the term for the relationship between the upper and lower jaws when the teeth are closed?
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Which type of teeth is classified as having a single root and is primarily used for cutting food?
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What dental term describes the upper and lower divisions of the mouth categorized into four areas?
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Which type of dental teeth is known to replace baby teeth during a person's lifetime?
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What term is used to describe teeth that all have the same shape and size in lower vertebrates?
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What is the primary function of molars in the dentition?
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Which term describes baby teeth that are original teeth and fall out during childhood?
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How many cusps can molars have, according to the complexity of their structure?
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In dental terminology, what is the term for the cutting and tearing food function associated with canines?
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Which dental classification pertains to teeth that come in different shapes and sizes, serving various functions?
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What is the cutting edge of the incisors called?
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In dental terminology, what does the term 'mesiodistal division' refer to?
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Which dental surface is described as the chewing surface for posterior premolars and molars?
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What does the term 'occlusocervical division' describe in teeth?
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What is the vertical third closest to the tongue referred to as?
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Which imaginary point is defined by the intersection of three crown surfaces?
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What denotes the horizontal division of a tooth or root into thirds?
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What surface of the tooth is towards the midline?
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What term refers to the division of a tooth into horizontal thirds along its length?
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Which area of the oral cavity is referred to as the point where the mesial and labial surfaces intersect?
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What is the term for the pointed or rounded peak of enamel found on cuspids?
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Which term describes the small additional cusp typically found at the mesiolingual line angle of maxillary first molars?
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What is the name of the linear faults that sometimes occur in a developmental groove of a tooth?
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Which area on a tooth represents the triangular space near the gingiva between adjacent teeth?
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What term refers to the area on the mesial or distal surface of a tooth that touches an adjacent tooth in the same arch?
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Which term describes the division of a root into multiple branches?
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What is the rounded or wedge-shaped depression of a tooth commonly referred to as?
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Which term is used for the low points or ‘valleys’ found in the occlusal surfaces of teeth?
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What is referred to as the distance between the fissures at the top of the cusps on a tooth?
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What do we call the triangular depression found primarily on the occlusal surfaces of molars?
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What is a characteristic dental issue commonly seen in patients with Down syndrome?
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Which of the following is a significant concern for individuals with profound intellectual disability regarding dental care?
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How do autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect communication in patients requiring dental care?
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Which physical characteristic is NOT typically associated with Down syndrome?
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Which dental condition is most likely to result from the characteristics of Down syndrome?
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What is a common dental care approach for patients with autism spectrum disorders?
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What influences the dental health challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome?
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At what age do primary incisors typically erupt in individuals with Down syndrome?
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What is a common characteristic of individuals with mild intellectual disability?
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Which environment is typically considered better for patients with special needs regarding dental treatment?
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When treating a patient with moderate intellectual disability, what may be necessary before dental treatment?
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What cognitive level is associated with severe intellectual disability?
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Which of the following best describes the dental treatment approach for patients with severe intellectual disability?
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For individuals with a moderate intellectual disability, what academic achievement is typically expected?
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What is an essential step when evaluating special needs dental patients prior to treatment?
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How are individuals with mild intellectual disability likely to communicate their needs?
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Individuals with severe intellectual disability are most likely to have difficulty developing what?
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What level of support is generally needed for individuals with moderate intellectual disability?
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What is the primary role of space maintainers in pediatric dentistry?
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Why might pediatric dentists frequently use nitrous oxide during procedures?
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What does it mean when a child's chronological age differs significantly from their mental or emotional age?
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What developmental milestone typically occurs during infancy?
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What is recommended to alleviate anxiety during a dental exam for infants?
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What is a key aspect evaluated during a pediatric extraoral exam?
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Which condition may be indicated by gingival inflammation during an intraoral exam?
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What is assessed during the examination and charting of teeth in young children?
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How can fluoride be applied to improve children's dental health?
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What common dietary factor can negatively impact children's dental health?
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Which aspect of medical history is crucial in evaluating a child's dental health?
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What is a potential consequence of untreated dental issues in children related to their medical history?
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Which action is vital for maintaining oral hygiene in children after dental exams?
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What might a dentist recommend for a child with severe dental anxiety during exams?
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In what way can early identification of dental disease be critical for children?
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What is a recommended approach to communicating with child patients during dental visits?
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Which technique is NOT recommended for behavior management with children in a dental setting?
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What is an effective way to create a positive first dental experience for children?
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What role does positive reinforcement play in pediatric dental care?
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How should dental professionals interact with anxious, talkative children during procedures?
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What is a common misconception about communicating with children about dental procedures?
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Why is it important to ensure trust between the child, parent, and dentist?
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What is the benefit of the tell-show-do method during dental visits for children?
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How should a dentist prepare for a child's dental appointment?
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What is an inappropriate reaction to a child's uneasy behavior in a dental setting?
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What is the primary advantage of using digital sensors in dental radiography?
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When positioning film for radiographic exposure, what is an essential factor to ensure accurate images?
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What is the purpose of the XCP device in radiographic procedures?
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What instructions should a dental assistant provide to a patient before taking radiographs?
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What is a critical consideration regarding radiographic exposures to minimize patient risk?
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What is commonly expected of dental assistants during the patient radiographic process?
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What is a common method to reduce the potential for distortion in radiographic images?
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Why should patients be informed about the radiographic process and its purpose?
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What is the primary function of a Dental Managed Organization (DMO)?
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In the context of dental insurance, what is an essential aspect of a capitation plan?
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What is a common reason people prefer group dental plans over individual plans?
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What could be a disadvantage of capitation plans such as HMOs and DMOs?
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What does a direct reimbursement plan in dental insurance imply?
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What is the term for a child who is included under a parent's dental insurance policy?
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What term describes the fees used by insurance carriers to determine Usual, Customary, and Reasonable (UCR) fees?
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When might a person opt for an individual dental insurance plan instead of a group plan?
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What is the potential validity of dentist concerns regarding dental insurance companies?
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What type of coverage would typically apply if an accident at work requires dental treatment?
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What happens with the fixed fee method when patients receive dental care?
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What is a potential downside of capitation plans for patients?
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How do dental insurance companies impact the quality of patient care according to early concerns of dentists?
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What defines a direct reimbursement plan in dentistry?
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What is the role of premiums in an individual's dental insurance coverage?
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What is the initial step in confirming a patient's eligibility for dental coverage?
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How long does a patient typically have to wait after starting a new job for coverage to take effect?
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Under COBRA, how long can a patient continue their dental coverage after losing group coverage?
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What is a critical factor to verify when confirming a patient's dental coverage?
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What does the term 'pre-certify' refer to in the context of dental coverage?
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What might occur if a patient's coverage expired just before a scheduled treatment?
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Why is it important to clarify policy limitations when verifying benefits?
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What information is typically found on the back of a patient's insurance card?
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If a patient is laid off, what option do they have regarding their dental coverage?
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What is an essential piece of information to gather when a patient starts a new job?
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What is the purpose of the Assignment of Benefits form?
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Why is the predetermination of benefits important before performing dental services?
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What is typically required when submitting a treatment plan for preauthorization with an insurance carrier?
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What does the term 'reasonable and customary charge' refer to in dental benefits?
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What is the primary function of a deductible in dental insurance?
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Which statement about predeterminations is accurate?
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What should a dentist do if a treatment plan requires additional documentation?
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In the context of insurance benefits, what does coinsurance typically refer to?
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What is the main benefit of submitting a treatment plan before performing a procedure?
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What part of dental insurance affects the overall cost of procedures for the patient?
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What is the primary purpose of using gingival retraction cord during dental procedures?
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Which of the following statements about chemical retraction cords is correct?
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What is a key function of provisional crown forceps in dental procedures?
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What is the typical thickness of a wax wafer used for bite registration?
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Which instrument is primarily used for packing gingival retraction cord?
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What aspect should be considered when setting up a tray for dental procedures?
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Which statement correctly describes the use of plain (untwisted) gingival retraction cord?
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What is the general formula for organizing instruments on a dental tray?
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What is a primary benefit of fixed prosthetic devices for patients?
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Which condition makes a patient unsuitable for crowns or bridge work?
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What is one of the key restorations provided by fixed prosthodontic treatment?
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What do fixed prosthodontic treatments primarily restore?
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Which of the following indicates that a patient is a good candidate for fixed prosthodontic treatment?
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What should precede prosthodontic treatment for some patients?
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What role do crowns play in fixed prosthodontics?
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What is the purpose of loading a triple tray with elastomeric impression material?
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Which of the following is NOT an advantage of fixed prosthodontic treatments?
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How do fixed prosthetics affect speech in patients?
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After taking the impression, what is the next step involving provisional material?
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Why is it important to inspect the impression after removing it from the patient's mouth?
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What is necessary for effective maintenance of fixed prosthodontic devices?
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What materials are used for moisture control during the impression taking process?
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What is the final step in preparing the provisional crown for fit before placing it in the patient's mouth?
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How many visits to the dentist does a typical prosthodontic treatment require?
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What is NOT a characteristic of a patient who is a good candidate for a bridge or crown?
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What type of crown is ideal for use on back teeth where appearance isn't a priority?
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Which of the following statements is true regarding Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns?
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Which crown type starts with a very thin metal shell covered by porcelain?
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What is a main advantage of using gold for dental crowns?
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What type of restoration covers three or more surfaces of a tooth but not all surfaces?
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What is a characteristic of a full crown?
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How do porcelain jacket crowns compare to PFM crowns in terms of strength?
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What is the main component of a PFM crown?
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What is the purpose of packing the thicker retraction cord on top of the thinner cord?
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Which of the following is required to maintain proper hygiene during the procedure?
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What should be done immediately after delivering the finer retraction cord to the prep site?
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What is the significance of tucking the ends of the retraction cord into the sulcus?
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What should be done once the tissue has been retracted and the margins are visible?
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When is the finer cord removed during the procedure?
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What role does the hemostatic agent play in the procedure?
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What must be done to ensure an accurate final impression after packing the cords?
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What is the correct procedure after using the hemostatic agent?
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Why is it important to provide moisture control with proper placement of the HVE?
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What does the Frankel Scale specifically measure in children?
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Which behavior management technique is effective in establishing authority and gaining attention from pediatric patients?
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Which behavior management technique is best suited for alleviating fears of unknown procedures in children, especially those with Asperger’s syndrome?
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In cases where a child's behavior becomes unmanageable, which method may be necessary?
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Which patient group typically requires special dentistry in an institutional setting?
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What is a recognized characteristic of Down syndrome in pediatric patients?
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Which type of stimuli are generally most distressing to children with autism during dental visits?
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Athetosis, a condition associated with cerebral palsy, is characterized by what type of movement?
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What is the primary advantage of using nickel titanium arch wires in orthodontic treatment?
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During which examination does an orthodontist evaluate a patient's overall dental and medical history?
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What is the role of separators in orthodontic treatment?
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Which professional is primarily responsible for educating patients about oral hygiene in a pediatric setting?
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How does Angle’s Classification of Malocclusions benefit dental professionals?
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What shape of arch wires is used in the final stages of orthodontic treatment?
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What is the primary purpose of using a facebow appliance in pediatric orthodontics?
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Which of the following is an effective behavior management technique for children in dental settings?
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What consideration is important in office décor for pediatric dentistry?
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What type of patients do pediatric dentists treat?
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How many additional years of education do pediatric dentists require compared to general dentists?
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In pediatric dental practices, what role do dental assistants play in preventive dental care?
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Why is décor significant in a pediatric dental office?
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What type of uniforms do dental professionals typically wear in a pediatric practice?
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Which age group is known to crave independence and use conversation to communicate?
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What emotional behavior might infants display in a dental setting?
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What is a serious concern for dental assistants when working with infants?
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What technique is often utilized to manage children's behaviors in a dental setting?
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What is the expected treatment duration with orthodontic appliances for most cases?
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What is the primary advantage of an open bay model in orthodontic offices?
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Which role is primarily responsible for diagnosing malocclusion and carrying out treatment plans?
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How does the function of orthodontist assistants primarily differ from general dental assistants?
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Which type of retainer is most commonly used and consists of acrylic with wire clasps?
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What is a common behavior management technique used in pediatric dentistry?
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Which class of malocclusion is characterized by an underbite?
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What type of radiograph provides a standardized view of the skull, bones, and soft tissue?
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Which dental specialty typically requires additional education beyond dental school for specialists in pediatric care?
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What is the key role of office décor in pediatric dentistry?
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Children generally require radiographs _____ often than adults because they _____.
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Rubber cup prophylaxis refers to _____.
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Which vitamin is essential to absorb calcium?
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What should the dentist use when a primary tooth falls out prematurely and it may be a long time before the permanent tooth comes in?
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Children who do not or cannot drink milk products may be deficient in _____.
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What is the primary purpose of a matrix system in restorative dentistry?
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Which material requires a dentin sealer instead of a varnish for dentin protection?
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Which type of impression tray is specifically designed for capturing an entire dental arch?
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What is the main characteristic of alginate that makes it suitable for preliminary impressions?
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What is not a necessary step during the mixing of zinc phosphate?
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Which function might an expanded functions dental assistant be permitted to perform?
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When taking an impression with elastomeric materials, which aspect is critical to ensure accuracy?
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Which of the following is an advantage of using thermoplastic materials for dental applications?
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Which is not a way to ensure patient safety during restorative procedures?
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What is the purpose of using a bite registration in dental processes?
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Which impression technique involves taking a 3D scan of the prepared area?
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What is a potential issue when a stock tray does not adequately fit the patient's mouth?
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Which type of impression tray is NOT typically used in dental practices?
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Thermoplastic resin trays can be used to create everything EXCEPT what?
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Both standard and custom trays should fit above which surfaces?
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When taking an automix impression, which technique helps in avoiding air pockets?
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When mixing an acrylic resin tray, what is crucial to remember?
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What characterizes a diagnostic quality impression?
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What is crucial to remember when mixing gypsum materials for models?
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What is an important step in creating a thermoplastic resin tray?
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In a dental lab, what is the purpose of using a vibrator?
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Which of the following is a proper step when performing a wax bite registration?
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In using the double pour method, which step is essential?
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The grinding wheel that trims excess dental stone is typically found on what equipment?
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The working time with alginate material refers to what period?
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Which statement is true regarding trimming a model with a model trimmer?
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What is a common misconception about mixing light-bodied and regular-bodied materials?
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If a patient has a strong gag reflex, which type of alginate is advisable to use?
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What property of elastomeric impressions helps prevent tearing?
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What purpose is served by using heavy-bodied material in a dental impression?
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The stages of curing for elastomeric materials primarily include which options?
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What is the role of a moistened finger in managing impression materials?
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When trimming a gypsum model, what is NOT recommended?
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Which type of wax is used to construct an impression that shows the occlusal relationship of the maxillary and mandibular teeth?
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What is another name for the syringe type of elastomerics?
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Infection control procedures in the lab should include what action?
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When working with alginate material, it is necessary to avoid which of the following practices?
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Which option is NOT a step when removing an alginate impression?
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What is the main purpose of using safety data sheets in the lab?
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Which of the following actions should NOT be taken when taking a maxillary alginate impression?
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What should be filled into the tray when making an automix impression?
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Which characteristic is critical when selecting elastomeric impression materials?
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What is a common mistake when mixing alginate?
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What is the primary purpose of a periodontal probe?
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Which index is used to assess bleeding after probing the gums?
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What is the primary goal of root planing during periodontal treatment?
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Which term describes inflammation affecting a single tooth or a limited area in the mouth?
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What does the term 'osseous' specifically refer to?
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During the pulpectomy procedure, what is Cindy's primary responsibility?
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What should be the first step in prepping a patient for a root canal procedure?
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What can be inferred about Mr. Feldman’s condition if his pulpitis is reversible?
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After placing the dental dam, what is the next step in the procedure?
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During the root canal, what does Cindy need to do while debris is removed and the canal is enlarged?
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What type of file should Cindy transfer when Dr. Beeman asks for the smallest one during the procedure?
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After cleaning and shaping the root canal, what should Cindy have ready to dry the canal?
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What is expected from Cindy after Dr. Beeman fills the canal and places a temporary restoration?
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Which filling material is typically used after preparing the pulpal canal for a pulpectomy?
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Which solution is commonly used for irrigation during endodontic procedures?
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What is the primary purpose of using paper points in a root canal procedure?
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Which property should a root canal sealer possess to prevent issues during treatment?
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Which characteristic is important for a sealing material used in root canals?
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What should be considered the patient's chief complaint during an endodontic examination?
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What initial action should be taken after noting a patient's complaint of tooth pain?
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Which material is not typically used to seal a root canal?
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Which property is essential for an effective root canal sealer?
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Which material is considered an antimicrobial agent often used in root canal therapy?
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What is indicated if a patient experiences sharp pain that is not relieved by ice during temperature sensitivity tests?
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What is the primary reason for using a gingival retraction cord in prosthodontic procedures?
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What should be performed if a dental examination reveals positive percussion and palpation tests?
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What must be placed in the root canal before a crown can be affixed after root canal therapy?
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Which condition is characterized by an inflamed sulcus around a tooth with recurrent caries?
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When preparing for a crown, what is the first action that should be taken if core buildup is required?
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What is the primary purpose of performing electric pulp tests during an examination?
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What instrument is most suitable for removing a temporary crown?
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What treatment is typically indicated when a diagnosis reveals extensive pulp decay in a tooth?
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What accessory is recommended for a patient to effectively floss a dental bridge?
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Why is it important to determine if pain is alleviated by cold temperature during testing?
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What is a primary goal of pulp capping procedures?
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In the context of dental restorations, what is the primary purpose of a core buildup?
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In diagnosing a periodontal abscess, what symptom is typically expected to be present?
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What should a dentist consider using if a titanium post is unavailable during crown preparation?
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What should be done immediately after mixing cement for a permanent crown?
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What does a positive response from an electric pulp test indicate?
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What is commonly indicated by dull, throbbing pain in response to heat sensitivity?
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What misconception might patients have regarding the placement of crowns on nonvital teeth?
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Why might a dentist require visual confirmation of a radiograph during crown preparation?
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What does a microscopic evaluation of an oral lesion typically involve?
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Which condition is described as a crater-like break in the mucosa?
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What is considered a result of recurrent caries?
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What condition is most likely characterized by a solid, round mass located below the mucosal surface?
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Which of the following is primarily assessed during a therapeutic evaluation in dentistry?
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Which device is primarily designed to control the growth of the maxilla or retract anterior teeth?
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What device is known for moving the lower jaw forward in orthodontics?
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Which component is used to hold the arch wire in place during dental procedures?
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What is the primary purpose of a traction device in orthodontic treatment?
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Which orthodontic appliance is specifically used for correcting Class II malocclusion?
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What type of force does nickel titanium provide in orthodontics?
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In orthodontics, what is the function of labial hooks?
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What is one of the fundamental roles of orthodontic appliances?
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Which instrument is primarily used to reshape bone after an extraction?
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What is the function of a periosteal elevator in dental procedures?
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Which tool is specifically designed to help oral surgeons grip and grasp during procedures?
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What is the primary function of the wire bending pliers in orthodontics?
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Which tool is primarily used for placing or removing adjustment bands in an arch wire?
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Which instrument helps the surgeon hold tissues back during surgery or extraction?
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What type of instrument is a surgical curette primarily used for?
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What is the primary purpose of the orthodontic scaler?
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Which of the following tools has cross-pattern surface serrations to grasp suture needles?
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In orthodontics, what does the term 'malocclusion' refer to?
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Which type of pliers is used to hold and tie ligatures in orthodontics?
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What is the primary use of roof tip picks in dental procedures?
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What does an elevator do in the context of dental surgery?
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What characteristic defines the bird beak pliers?
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Which of these instruments is commonly used to remove teeth in one piece?
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Which tool is essential for removing bands from teeth without causing stress?
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What is the main purpose of using a mouth prop during dental procedures?
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What is the primary use of contouring pliers in orthodontics?
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What is the function of the pin-and-ligature cutter?
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Which orthodontic tool is most suitable for placing bonded brackets onto teeth?
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What is the primary purpose of a chin cap traction device in orthodontics?
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Which orthodontic appliance utilizes a combination of features from multiple traction devices?
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How do continuous wire ties contribute to orthodontic treatment?
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What are buccal tubes primarily used for in orthodontics?
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What component is welded to the cheek side of a molar band in orthodontics?
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In which situation would elastic chain ties be most effectively used?
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What material are arch wires commonly made from in orthodontic applications?
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What distinguishes aligners from traditional braces in orthodontics?
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Which device primarily functions to expand the upper palate?
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Which type of traction applies force to stabilize molars by fitting around the neck?
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What is the main function of the aluminum filter in dental radiography?
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What does the term 'direct digital imaging' refer to in dental radiography?
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Which component reduces distortion in dental radiographs?
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Which factor primarily determines the density of a radiographic image?
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What effect does exposure to radiation have on living tissues?
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Which type of radiation is primarily responsible for direct imaging in radiology?
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What is the main purpose of understanding radiation dose in medical imaging?
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What term describes the phenomenon where x-ray radiation changes direction after hitting a substance?
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Which unit is typically used to measure the exposure to x-ray radiation?
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What is an acceptable threshold dose in terms of radiation exposure?
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Which type of radiation is produced when x-rays contact any substance?
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Which cells are affected by somatic radiation exposure?
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Which term refers to organs that are most sensitive to radiation?
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What does dose equivalent measure in relation to radiation exposure?
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What is primarily involved in digital imaging in a dental context?
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What does ionization involve at a molecular level?
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What is the maximum permissible dose in terms of radiation?
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What term refers to radiation that escapes from the primary beam and requires machine repair?
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What type of radiation exposure occurs when the body absorbs small amounts over time?
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What does electromagnetic energy encompass?
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Which of the following describes a substance that radiation can easily pass through?
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What is the primary function of a thyroid collar in dental radiography?
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What biological entity is particularly affected by radiation due to genetic sensitivity?
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Which term refers to a digital x-ray system that uses no wires?
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Which of the following best describes silver halide crystals in x-ray film?
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What aspect of diagnostic imaging refers to the clarity or high level of sharpness in an x-ray?
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What does the term radiopaque refer to in radiographic terminology?
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Which component is used on the control panel to adjust the flow of current measured in milliamperes?
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What common issue might arise from badly exposed x-ray films?
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What term describes the range of shades appearing in a radiograph from white to black?
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Which of the following is a substance that radiation does not easily pass through?
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What role does a wired system play in digital x-ray imaging?
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Which of these options correctly describes what 'indirect digital imaging' utilizes?
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Which describes the primary purpose of a lead apron in dental radiography?
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Which radiation safety measure is primarily designed to shield important body parts during x-ray procedures?
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What element in diagnostic imaging helps distinguish the left from right side of the film?
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Which of the following terms describes the electrical current unit of measure used in radiography?
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What does the term 'kilovoltage peak meter' measure in radiographic imaging?
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What is the purpose of an abutment screw in dental implants?
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What is the initial step in the restorative phase of dental procedures?
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What is the main goal of the try-in visit during restorative dentistry?
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How does an opaquer function in dental restorations?
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Which statement accurately describes stage 1 surgery in dental implantology?
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What occurs during stage 2 surgery in the dental implant process?
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What is the role of a core buildup in dental restoration?
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Which of the following best describes the purpose of a master impression in dentistry?
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During the temporization process, what is primarily being placed?
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What is the purpose of the base in a partial denture?
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Which component of a denture controls the seating of the prosthesis when in the mouth?
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What type of denture is typically placed immediately after extracting the patient's remaining teeth?
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What is the function of the retainer in a partial denture?
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Which component links the major connector to the base in a denture?
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Which type of denture is designed to restore one or more missing teeth in the same arch?
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Study Notes
Dental Office Layout
- Sterilization Center: Located near operatories and treatment areas.
- Dental Laboratory: Spacious area with workbenches and storage for pouring impressions, preparing models and creating custom trays.
- Private Offices: For dentists, equipped with desks, chairs and personal items.
- Reception Area: Features comfortable seating, warm lighting, toys for children and other amenities.
- Administrative Area: Overlooks the reception area and is controlled by an assistant. Equipped with phone systems, file cabinets and computers.
- Treatment Areas: Contain dental chairs, assistants' stools, cabinets, x-ray viewers, sinks, roll-trays, rheostat, waterlines and hoses, air and water syringes and saliva ejector.
Dental Specialties
- Dental Public Health: Focuses on policy-making and community well-being. Works with government agencies to set policies.
- Endodontics: Specializes in root canals, treatment of tooth pulp and jaw structure diseases and injuries. Dental assistants perform chair-side assistance, x-ray processing, patient interactions, and more.
Dental Assistant Roles and Responsibilities
-
Sabrina's Daily Routine:
- Takes x-rays using a digital system.
- Communicates with patients and provides reassurance.
- Cleans operatories, hands out hygiene supplies and explains at-home care instructions.
- Prepares patients for procedures, including setting up rubber dams and engaging in conversations to keep them relaxed.
- Inputs treatment notes on laptops in each station.
- Answers billing questions and ensures operatories are set up for the afternoon.
- Stays updated on government regulations affecting the dental practice.
Key Benefits of Dental Assisting
- Career Choices: Dental assistants can work alongside dentists in specialized fields.
- High Demand: Dental practices often hire dental assistants to perform procedures and paperwork, freeing up dentists to see more patients.
- Work Hours: Dental assistants work a variety of schedules, including early mornings, evenings and weekends.
- Important Role in Patient Care: Dental assistants screen patients for health issues beyond tooth decay, including eating disorders, child abuse, oral cancers and anxiety. They promote daily oral care to prevent problems.
Dental Assistant Job Outlook
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects 25,700 openings for dental assistants each year from 2022 to 2032.
- Baby Boomers are visiting dental offices regularly.
- New dentists value dental assistants and see them as valuable assets to their teams.
- Dental assistants multitask, allowing dentists to perform more complex procedures in a shorter time.
- Strong growth opportunities exist in the dental assisting field with many opportunities for advancement within their practices or joining others.
Dental Assistant Tasks
- Dental assistants assist dentists with a variety of tasks like passing instruments, maneuvering suction hoses, providing post-surgery instructions for oral care.
- Some dental assistants are specially trained to take x-rays of teeth.
- Approximately 10% of dental assistants work more than 40 hours a week.
- Work hours can range from early morning into the evening and weekends.
Dental Assistant Role
- Dental assistants promote a daily care view to help patients prevent problems.
- Dental assistants help screen patients for health issues beyond tooth decay.
- Dental assistants are often the first to detect eating disorders, signs of child abuse or neglect, oral cancers, and anxiety issues.
Dental Office Areas
- Reception area features comfortable seating, warm lighting, toys and books for children.
- Administrative area overlooks the reception area and houses phone systems, file cabinets, computers.
- Treatment areas include dental chairs, assistants’ stools, cabinets, X-ray viewers, a sink, roll-trays, rheostat, waterlines and hoses.
- Sterilization center is usually tucked back in the office between or near operatories and treatment areas.
- Dental laboratory is an area to pour dental impressions, prepare diagnostic models, and create custom impression trays.
- Private offices are for dentists and feature desks, personal items, chairs and adornments.
Specialties in Dentistry
- Dental public health focuses on policy-making and rarely works with patients.
- Endodontics specializes in root canals, treatment of diseases, and injuries to tooth pulp.
- Dental assistants support endodontists by assisting during surgeries, processing x-rays, and interacting with patients.
- Other dental specialties include: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Oral Pathology, and Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.
The History of Dentistry
- McKay credited natural fluoride in the local drinking water for the lower cavity rates in residents of Colorado Springs.
- The use of protective gloves and other gear for dental staff began in 1990 after a woman contracted AIDS from her Florida dentist.
Career Choices
- Dental assistants can work in areas beyond general dentistry, including public health and with specialists.
- Dental assistants can contribute to insurance companies earning more income by performing procedures and paperwork that free the dentist to see more patients which generates more income.
Important Facts to Remember
- There is a high growth rate in the dental assisting field due to a variety of factors, including the aging population, an increased need for preventative care, and new dentists valuing dental assistants.
- Dental assistants play a vital role in the dental field, providing support to dentists and interacting directly with patients.
- Dental assistants contribute to patient care not only by assisting with dental procedures but also by identifying potential health issues beyond tooth decay.
Communication Skills
- Effective communication is key to building patient rapport and trust.
- Active listening skills are essential, including body language, paraphrasing, and clarifying.
- When communicating with elderly or disabled patients, speak slowly and clearly, directly to them.
Dental Forms
- Patient Registration Form: Captures basic patient information like name, address, insurance details.
- Medical Health History: Documents patient's overall health status including medical conditions, allergies, medications.
- Clinical Examination Form: Records vital signs and observations of the patient's oral health.
- Financial Arrangement Sheet: Outlines treatment fees and payment plans.
- Progress Notes: Document every treatment step, including the date, tooth numbers, procedures performed, and materials used.
- Dental Health History: Records prior dental experiences and oral hygiene practices. This includes questions about any history of pain, sensitivity, or past dental treatments.
- Treatment Plan Sheet: Outlines the dentist's recommendations for treatment and cost estimates.
- Informed Consent Form: Patients acknowledge understanding and consenting to proposed treatments.
Dental Equipment
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Equipment:
- Assistant’s stool: Provides a comfortable and adjustable seat for the dental assistant.
- Operator’s stool: Provides a comfortable and adjustable seat for the dentist.
- X-ray view box: Illuminates and displays dental X-rays for viewing.
- Dental chair: Allows the patient to recline comfortably during treatment.
- Saliva ejector/Oral evacuator: Removes saliva and debris from the patient's mouth.
- High-speed handpiece: A powerful tool used for removing decay and preparing teeth for fillings.
- Low-speed handpiece: A slower tool used for polishing teeth and placing dental sealants.
Roles in a Dental Office
- Dental Assistant: Assists the dentist with clinical procedures, takes X-rays, and manages patient care and records.
- Dental Hygienist: Provides preventative services, cleaning teeth, taking X-rays, and educating patients on oral health.
- Dental Laboratory Technician: Fabricates dental prosthetics, crowns, bridges, and dentures, ensuring an accurate fit and function.
- Office Staff: Manages administrative tasks, schedules appointments, handles billing and insurance claims, and interacts with patients.
Legal Considerations
- Standard of Care: Refers to the accepted level of skill and competence expected of a dental professional.
- Informed Consent: Patients need complete and accurate information about their treatment options to make informed decisions.
- HIPPA: Protects patients' privacy and defines how personal health information can be used and disclosed.
Personal Presentation and Character
- Dental professionals are expected to maintain a professional appearance, including neat grooming and appropriate attire.
- Success in dental assisting often involves ethical behavior, personal responsibility, and effective communication skills.
Dental Assistant Quiz Material
- The “2/2 rule” for brushing advises to brush each tooth five to eight times.
- The duration timer on an electric toothbrush indicates when enough brushing time has been completed.
- Food debris can be found in the contours of the tongue.
- Halitosis is bad breath.
- Only 42% of Americans floss weekly.
- An interdental brush is spiral-shaped to clean between dental work or in gaps.
- Chewing gum for 20 minutes after meals can help remove bacteria.
- Fluoride travels to the tissues via the bloodstream.
- Fluoride occurs naturally in soil, rock, salt, and fresh water.
- Apatite is the limestone deposit used for fluoride additives.
- Some whitening products, hard candy, tobacco, and breath mints can negatively impact the benefits of fluoride.
- Excessive fluoride intake by children under the age of eight can cause tooth discoloration.
- Dentists should modify appointments and avoid certain techniques when treating patients with known heart problems.
- Polymerization refers to the setting time and curing process of materials.
- Self-cured and light-cured materials are made up of two components: base and catalyst.
- Sealants can last up to seven years.
- Starchy, sugary, and acidic foods can activate bacterial activity.
- One of the five steps of active listening is paraphrasing.
- Open posture demonstrates welcoming and active listening.
- Communicate slowly and clearly with elderly and disabled patients.
- Medical health history records details like medications, such as Cozaar for hypertension.
- The clinical examination form records vital signs, such as temperature, pulse, and respiration.
- The financial arrangement sheet records treatment fees and payment plans.
- The dental health history notes any previous dental experiences, such as a broken tooth.
- Progress notes contain the date of treatment, treatment performed, tooth number, and the cost associated with the treatment.
- The dentist uses the informed consent form to allow the patient to approve treatment, including the risks involved.
- Mechanical properties characterize how well a material withstands biting and chewing forces.
- Thermal properties describe a material's ability to withstand temperature changes.
- Solubility defines if a material dissolves in the mouth.
- Application properties characterize how easily a material flows and adheres to the tooth.
- Film thickness refers to the distance between two joined surfaces.
- Viscosity is the property of liquid that makes it flow smoothly.
- Surface characteristics affect wetting ability.
- The abdominal bar and adjustable foot ring are part of the dental chair.
- The dental chair elevates to three positions and is used for both adults and children.
- An assistant's stool features a lumbar cushion for upper body and arm support.
- The supine position is required when taking impressions of the teeth.
- The dentist should place the patient in the supine position when replacing a crown.
- Malocclusion occurs when teeth do not align correctly.
- Only unconscious patients require the sub-supine position.
- The area behind the patient is considered the transfer zone.
- The operator's zone is where the dentist sits.
- The assistant's zone is where the assistant sits.
- The static zone is used to exchange instruments and materials between the dentist and assistant.
- For a left-handed operator, the operator's zone spans from 2:00 to 4:00 o'clock.
- For a right-handed operator, the transfer zone is between 12:00 and 2:00.
- The visual review, which involves inspecting the teeth and gums, is the initial step in a dental exam.
- Difficulty pronouncing “s” sounds can be an indicator of mouth breathing.
- The periodontal exam includes checking the patient's lymph nodes, lips, and mucous membranes.
- A score of “2” on a periodontal exam indicates the presence of periodontal pockets.
Dental Terminology
- Adhesion: Ability of two materials to stick to each other.
- Amalgam: A silver filling material that contains tin, copper, zinc, and mercury.
- Bonding Agent: A material applied to tooth structure to help with adhesion.
- Compomer: The mixture of composite resin and glass ionomer.
- Composite Resin: A tooth-colored restorative material.
- Corrosion: The ability of food to damage a material's structure.
- Coupling Matrix: Binds organic filler to the organic resin matrix.
- Curing: The process of hardening.
- Dual-Curing: A material will harden during mixing and can be hardened with the use of light.
- Electrical: The ability to conduct electricity, or the measure of how well something conducts electricity.
- Etchant: An acidic liquid or gel that removes enamel and dentin.
- Film Thickness: How closely two materials are connected.
- Flow: The ability of a liquid to move through an area.
- Force: A push or a pull that affects a material.
- Glass Ionomer Cement: A material that adheres to enamel, dentin, and metals.
- Sealants: A material that protects the surfaces of teeth.
Mechanical Mouth Properties
- Retention: The ability of a material to hold two things together.
- Solubility: The mouth's ability to dissolve materials.
- Strain: The change that results from stress placed on a material.
- Stress: The reaction to force applied to a material.
- Thermal Mouth Property: The ability of a material to resist temperature changes.
- Viscosity: A liquid's ability to flow or resistance to flow.
- Wetting: The ability of a liquid to spread over a surface.
- Zinc Phosphate Cement: A dental cement commonly used for crowns, castings, inlays, onlays, and bridges.
- ZOE: A soothing cement for the tooth's pulp.
Impression Materials
- Acrylic: A material used to make denture bases.
- Baseplate Wax: A hard, supportive wax used to create the base for dentures.
- Bite Registration: A material used to register the relationship between the maxillary and mandibular arches.
- Boxing Wax: Soft wax, used to form a wall around a preliminary impression.
- Dental Stone: A gypsum material used to create working models.
- Elastic Strain: A material that exhibits rubber-like properties, stretching and returning to its original shape.
- Elastomeric: An impression material that changes from a solution to a gel state.
- Final Impression: The most accurate impression of the teeth and tissues, used for constructing crowns, bridges, and dentures.
- Hydrocolloid: Impression material used for taking preliminary impressions.
- Inlay Casting Wax: A hard, brittle wax used to make impressions of teeth and tissues.
- Inlay Wax: A soft wax used to make impressions of teeth and tissues.
- Molded Plaster: A gypsum material used for creating diagnostic models.
- Preliminary Impression: The first impression of the teeth and tissues, used for making a diagnostic model.
- Provisional Restoration: A temporary restoration placed in the mouth while awaiting a permanent restoration.
Dental Instruments
- Abrasive Rotary Instrument: A rotary instrument used to shape, polish, and remove tooth structure.
- Air Abrasive Instruments: A rotary instrument that combines air and water pressure to deliver a stream of abrasive material.
- Burs: Rotary cutting instruments with sharp blades, used for smoothing, preparing surfaces, and preparing cavities for fillings.
- Cassette Systems: A method of transporting and storing dental instruments.
- Cutting Burs: Burs designed to remove tooth structure.
- Diamond Burs: Burs that are specially designed for high-speed use.
- Finishing Bur: Burs that are designed to polish and smooth surfaces.
- Friction-Grip Shank: A shank without retention grooves, designed for low-speed handpieces.
- Head: The cutting portion of a bur.
- Laboratory Burs: Burs specially designed to be used in a laboratory.
- Latch-Type Shank: A shank with a small groove in the end, designed for low-speed handpieces.
- Neck: The narrow portion of a bur that connects the shank to the head.
- Straight Shank: A long, straight shank that fits into a straight-line attachment.
- Tray Systems: A method of storing and transporting dental instruments.
- Working End: The part of a dental instrument that performs a function, and touches the tooth.
- Periodontal Probe: An instrument used to assess the depth of pockets between teeth and gums.
Restorative and Tooth Preparation Categories
- Restorative Category: Categories of dental instruments that are used to place, condense, and carve dental restorative materials.
- Tooth Preparation Category: Categories of dental instruments that are used to remove decay, smooth and finish teeth.
Office Equipment
- Copiers: Used for copying receipts, patient information, supply orders, insurance cards and claim forms.
- Scanners: Used for scanning records into digital files.
- Telephone Systems: Most offices have multi-line systems with possible dedicated lines.
- Headsets: Helpful for multitasking.
- After-hours Answering Service: Handles dental emergencies with the service paging or calling the dentist on their cell phone or leaving their number for patients to call directly.
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Computers: Indispensable for administrative tasks such as:
- Updating patient records
- Entering exam notes and treatment plans
- Word processing
- Sending and receiving emails
- Searching insurance eligibility and benefits
- Researching new products
- Updating office websites
- Handling bookkeeping and patient ledgers
- Billing and collecting on accounts
- Processing insurance claims
- Scheduling appointments
- Processing payroll
- Organizing recall reminders
- Ordering supplies
Proper Equipment Care
- Administrative DAs often take responsibility for equipment upkeep.
- This includes ordering paper, ink, and other supplies, as well as scheduling service technicians as needed.
Appointment Scheduling
- Dental offices run on time, with efficient DAs scheduling appointments with great care and depth of knowledge.
- Overbooking can lead to patient irritability, stress, and lower quality of care.
- DAs should be aware of how much time routine procedures take and be able to adjust schedules accordingly.
- Small dental practices may have an administrator who fulfills both clinical and administrative roles.
Preventive Recall Systems
- A recall system is designed to remind patients to schedule regular appointments.
- Dental assistants play an important role in shaping patients' responses to the recall system.
- Regular dental care can help minimize dental disease, pain and discomfort, and catch problems early to keep costs down.
- Recall appointments typically include:
- Prophylaxis
- Exam from the dentist
- X-rays at prescribed intervals
- Home care education
- Discussion of needed follow-up care
- Fluoride treatment
Duties
- It's possible for DAs to be responsible for a recall system, which can be either existing or designed to be implemented by the DA.
- A successful recall system should be:
- Consistent
- Easy to use
- Patient-friendly
- Flexible
- Coordinate with insurance companies
Types of Recall Systems
- Recall systems can vary depending on the number of patients, availability of resources, and preferences.
Scheduling Methods
- Traditional paper and pen systems still exist in some practices, but modern offices mostly use electronic scheduling software (ESS).
- ESS simplifies appointment scheduling, tracks staff hours, and provides additional features such as:
- Tracking missed appointments
- Generating reminder calls
- Pop-up reminders
- ESS is often used for manual mode, with schedulers selecting open time slots. It can also be used in automatic mode, where the computer selects the best fit for each patient.
Infection Control and Safety
- Government Agencies: CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulate infection control in dental offices.
- Bloodborne Pathogens (BBPs): Regulations regarding BBPs are considered critical for dental care.
- Employee Vaccinations: Employees may decline recommended vaccinations. In these cases, their decision must be documented in writing.
- BBP Training: BBP training must be held at least annually.
- Hepatitis B Vaccine: Employees handling BBPs must be offered a Hepatitis B vaccine within 10 days of starting the job.
- CDC Vaccination Recommendations: The CDC recommends Hepatitis B, Varicella-zoster, and Mumps vaccinations for dental healthcare professionals (DHCPs). Hepatitis C is not recommended.
- Hand Washing: DHCPs must wash hands with soap and water, removing all jewelry, before and after wearing gloves. Alcohol-based handrubs are effective at a concentration of 60 to 90 percent.
- Handwashing Sinks: Hands-free sinks are optimal for infection control in dental clinics.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is essential for DHCPs, including protective clothing, gloves, masks, and eye protection.
- Protective Clothing: Protective clothing should be changed at least daily.
- Eye Protection: Prescription glasses offer inadequate protection for DHCPs as they do not provide a strong enough barrier.
- Immunity: Immunity can be inherited, acquired, passive, and naturally acquired.
- Chronic Disease Prevention: The CDC focuses on preventing chronic diseases.
- Employee Health Protection: OSHA is responsible for protecting employee health.
- OSHA Standards: The BBP (Bloodborne Pathogens) Standard and the Hazard Communication Standard are two of the most important OSHA standards.
- BBP Standard: This standard covers percutaneous (needle stick) and permucosal (mucous membrane) contact.
- Hepatitis Viruses: Hepatitis A is spread through fecal-oral contact. Hepatitis B and C are spread through blood.
- HIV: HIV can be spread to patients and staff through accidental needle pricks and exposure to contaminated saliva or blood.
- Bacterial Diseases: Tuberculosis, Legionnaires’ disease, and tetanus are examples of bacterial diseases.
- Pathogens: Bacteria, fungi, and viruses are examples of pathogens.
- Nonpathogenic Microorganisms: Microorganisms that do not cause harm to the body are called nonpathogenic.
- Bacterial Endospores: Bacterial endospores are difficult to eliminate because they can survive extreme heat, dehydration, and radiation.
- Host Cells: A host cell is where a virus lives and replicates.
- Virulence: The strength of a pathogen is called its virulence.
- Disease Transmission Modes: The modes of disease transmission refer to how a disease is spread once it enters the body.
- Ports of Entry: Inhalation, ingestion, parenteral (injections), and mucous membranes are all ports of entry for pathogens.
- Disease Transmission Modes: Indirect contact, splash and spatter, and airborne transmission are examples of disease transmission modes.
- Parenteral Transmission: Parenteral transmission refers to the spread of bacteria through the skin, for example, via injections.
- Immunization: Vaccines provide artificially acquired immunity.
- Masks: Masks must provide at least 95% efficiency for particles 3 to 5 micrometers in diameter.
- Gloves: Procedure gloves, surgical gloves, over gloves, and utility gloves are commonly used in dental settings.
- Latex Allergy: Symptoms of a latex allergy include red rash, coughing, wheezing, and skin scales.
- Surface Disinfectants: The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulates environmental surface disinfectants.
- Surface Barriers: Surface barriers must be changed between every patient or whenever they become visibly soiled.
- Biohazardous Waste: Biohazardous waste is also called infectious or regulated waste.
- Noncritical Items: These are items that come into contact with intact skin, such as head aprons, position indicators, and curing lights.
- Holding Solutions: A holding solution prevents dried blood and debris from sticking to instruments while they await cleaning.
- Ultrasonic Cleaning: DHCPs use ultrasonic cleaners to loosen and remove debris from instruments.
- Autoclaves: Autoclaves must reach a temperature of 250 to 273 degrees Fahrenheit to sterilize instruments effectively.
- Sterilization: The only sterilization process that doesn’t use a machine is dry heat.
- Dental Dam Placement: Place the HVE (High-Volume Evacuator) before placing the mouth mirror and handpiece.
- HVE: The HVE reduces bacterial aerosols from the handpiece.
- Surgical Tips: Surgical suction tips are best for removing tissues, blood, and debris.
- Dental Dam Clamps: Dental dam clamps come in anterior, posterior, and pediatric sizes.
- Dental Dam Hole Punching: Punches are used with a stylus and a template plate to create holes in dental dams.
- Dental Dam Hole Sizes: A #2 hole is appropriate for a premolar.
- Tri-Angle: A Tri-Angle is a thick absorbent triangular pad that controls saliva flow.
- Four-Handed Dentistry: This teamwork approach involves a dentist and a chairside assistant working together.
- Instrument Transfer: Use a reverse grasp to transfer bulky items.
- Dental Dam Stabilization: A stabilizing cord can be used to secure a dental dam.
- Surface Disinfection: Clinical surfaces must be precleaned before disinfection.
- Handpiece Sterilization: Flush and sterilize handpieces after each use.
- Dental Lines: Purge and air dry dental lines at the end of each day.
- Dental Dam Placement: If the patient has plaque or debris where the dental dam will be placed, ask them to brush and rinse.
Oral Anatomy Terminology
- Palatine Raphe: A slightly protruding line that runs down the middle of the hard palate.
- Oral Vestibule: The area between the buccal mucosa and the gums, also known as gingiva.
- Palantine Tonsils: Masses of lymphoid tissue that provide protection against infection and are located below the ears.
- Papilla: Features taste buds and cover the top of the tongue.
- Parotid Glands: Release saliva through Stensen's duct.
- Parotid Papilla: Point where skin meets the vermillion zone.
- Submandibular Glands: Located on the lower jaw and direct saliva to Wharton’s ducts.
- Vermillion Border: Flap of tissue on the buccal mucosa.
- Vermillion Zone: The red parts of lips.
- Vestibule Fornix: The deepest part of the oral vestibule.
- Xerostomia: Dry mouth.
Dental Terminology
- Alveolar Eminence: The outline of the root, visible on the outside of the jawbone.
- Antagonist: A tooth that occludes another tooth in the opposing arch with closed mouth.
- Bifurcation: A root that divides into two branches.
- Contact Area: Area on the mesial or distal surface that touches an adjacent tooth; same arch.
- Crown Depressions: Low points or "valleys" in the surface of the crown.
- Cusp: Pointed or rounded peak of enamel on cuspids; occlusal surfaces of the premolars and molars.
- Cusp of Carabelli: A small additional cusp at the mesiolingual line angle of maxillary first molars.
- Developmental Groove: Fissure between the cusps on the crown of a tooth.
- Elevations: Heights.
- Embrasure Space: Triangular space near the gingiva between proximal surfaces of two adjacent teeth and their contact.
- Fissures: Linear faults that sometimes occur in a developmental groove when the lobes do not correctly join.
- Fossa: Rounded or wedge-shaped depression of varying size on the surface of the tooth.
- Furcation: Division of a root into multiple branches.
- Lobe: One of the primary divisions of a crown.
- Mamelon: Rounded portion of the incisal edge of newly erupted central or lateral incisors.
Tooth Types and Terminology
- Cuspid: Canine tooth.
- Deciduous Dentition: Baby teeth, original teeth that fall out during childhood.
- Dentition: Refers to the type, number, and arrangement of a set of teeth.
- Heterodont: Classification of a creature whose teeth come in different shapes and sizes and perform different functions.
- Homodont: Classification of lower vertebrates whose teeth are the same shape and size and perform the same function.
- Incisors: Single root, cutting or bite, center front of mouth.
- Molars: Larger than premolars, with up to five cusps; chew and grind.
- Occlusion: The relationship between the maxillary and mandibular teeth when the upper and lower jaws are closed.
- Permanent Dentition: Replace baby teeth or erupt to become permanent through lifespan.
- Premolars: Cross between cuspids and molars; for chewing.
- Quadrants: Division of mouth and arches into four areas.
Tooth Surface Terminology
- Apical (anterior): Tip of root.
- Apical (posterior): Root tip or root termination.
- Apical Third: Horizontal third nearest the tip of the root.
- Anterior Teeth: Chewing surface; in anterior teeth, this is the cutting edge of the incisors (called the incisal edge).
- Buccolingual Division: Lengthwise division of the tooth in a labial or buccal-lingual direction (from lips to cheek) to create thirds.
- Cervical Third: Horizontal third nearest the neck of the tooth.
- Distal (anterior): Surface of the tooth farthest from the midline.
- Distal (posterior): Surface of the tooth distant (away) from the midline.
- Distal Third: Vertical third nearest the distal surface.
- Facial (anterior): Closest to the face; in anterior teeth, specifically called the labial surface because it is closest to the lips.
- Facial (posterior): Closest to the face; buccal surface, close to cheeks.
- Facial Third: Vertical third nearest the cheek or lips.
- Lingual (anterior): Inside surface, closest to the tongue.
- Lingual (posterior): Inside surface closest to the tongue; vertical third nearest the tongue; palatal surface on all maxillary teeth, as is closest to the palate.
- Lingual Third: Vertical third nearest the tongue.
- Line Angle: Imaginary line formed where any two crown surfaces intersect.
- Masicatory (anterior): Chewing surface; in anterior teeth, this is the cutting edge of the incisors (called the incisal edge).
- Masicatory (posterior): Chewing surface; posterior premolars and molars.
- Mesial (anterior): Surface of the tooth toward the midline.
- Mesial (posterior): Chewing surface; posterior premolars and molars.
- Mesial Third: Vertical third nearest the mesial surface.
- Mesiodistal Division: Lengthwise division of the tooth in a mesial-distal (front-to-back) direction to create thirds.
- Middle Third: Vertical third in the middle of the tooth.
- Mesiolabial: Run farthest from the midline of the mouth; near the back of the mouth.
- Occlusocervical Division: Crosswise division of the tooth or root into horizontal thirds, parallel to the chewing surface.
- Point Angle: Imaginary point where any three crown surfaces intersect.
Profound Intellectual Disability
- Individuals with Profound Intellectual Disability have an IQ below 20.
- They require a highly structured environment with constant aid and supervision.
Down Syndrome
- Individuals with Down syndrome have a defect in their chromosomes that results in mental difficulties and physical characteristics.
- They have a flattened back of the head, slanted eyes, a slightly jutting jaw, reduced muscle strength and tone, a slightly depressed nose bridge, and heart problems.
- Dental problems include: late teeth eruption, small and peg-shaped teeth, malocclusion, and misalignment.
- The tongue often protrudes because of an underdeveloped jaw. This can lead to periodontal problems.
- Treat patients with Down syndrome according to their mental age and abilities.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) begin in early childhood and persist throughout adulthood.
- ASDs affect three crucial areas of development: communication, social interaction, and creative or imaginative play.
- Individuals with ASD have difficulty with social interaction and communication.
- They may not use or interpret nonverbal behaviors like tone of voice or facial expressions, and they may not share experiences or form relationships.
Intellectual Disability
- Intellectual disability is a condition with limited mental and adaptive skills.
- The four levels of intellectual disability are mild, moderate, severe, and profound.
Mild Intellectual Disability
- Individuals with mild intellectual disability have IQs ranging from 50 to 70.
- They develop social and communication skills during preschool years, have minimal motor skill problems, and are often indistinguishable from other children until later in life.
- When working with a patient with a mild intellectual disability, be patient, understanding, and reassuring.
Moderate Intellectual Disability
- Individuals with moderate intellectual disability have IQs ranging from 35 to 55.
- They learn to communicate during preschool years but rarely surpass a second-grade level academically.
- They may benefit from vocational training later in life and typically need supervision and guidance under stress.
- They often live in supervised group homes where they can care for themselves.
- When working with a patient with a moderate intellectual disability, you may need to administer pre-treatment medication or use restraints.
Severe Intellectual Disability
- Individuals with severe intellectual disability have IQs ranging from 20 to 40.
- They display poor motor skills during the preschool period and rarely develop communication skills.
- As adults, they can perform simple tasks under close supervision.
- Working with a patient with a severe intellectual disability requires specialized dental treatment.
Dental History
- Important Information to collect from parents and child:
- Primary concern about the child's dental health
- Bleeding gums with brushing
- Fluoride and toothbrush habits
- Finger, thumb, or pacifier habits
- Inherited family dental characteristics.
Extraoral Exam
- Evaluates the patient's facial profile to determine skeletal characteristics.
- Asymmetry of the eyes, ears, or nose may indicate an undiagnosed syndrome.
- Refer the child to a specialist for a complete evaluation if abnormalities are found.
Intraoral Soft Tissue Exam
- Evaluates the child's gingiva and periodontium.
- Examines the base of the teeth for plaque and calculus.
- Checks for gingival inflammation and bleeding.
Dental Exam and Teeth Charting
- Examines and charts teeth using a mouth mirror and explorer.
- May use fingers with very young children due to fear of instruments.
- Examines primary and mixed dentition.
- Determines spacing or crowding issues based on age and eruption sequences.
Behavior Management
- Building trust between parent, child, and dentist is essential for effective dental care.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior.
- Never punish or reward undesirable behavior.
- Give your full attention to the child from the moment they arrive.
- Deal appropriately with talkative children.
Stages of Childhood
- You should understand children in terms of their chronological, mental, and emotional ages.
- These ages may differ in a child.
- Infancy: Refers to birth through age two. Children learn to sit, stand, walk, and run. They progress from babbling to simple sentences. They learn to identify faces and become afraid of strangers and separation.
- Parents should be present during dental exams for infants.
- Parents, dentists, and assistants must interpret the child's responses since an infant cannot clearly communicate.
Nitrous Oxide
- Pediatric dentists may use nitrous oxide to calm anxious patients, children, and special needs patients.
- Nitrous oxide helps decrease anxiety and relax muscles to make procedures easier.
Dental Insurance
- Dental insurance plans cover dental treatments, including checkups, cleanings, fillings, and extractions
- Most patients are enrolled in group plans provided by their employers
- COBRA allows patients to continue their coverage for 18 months after losing their job, but the patient is responsible for the premiums
- Dental benefits cover the dental services and the amount paid by the insurance company
- It's important to pre-certify the patient to confirm eligibility before providing treatment
- The deductible is the minimum out-of-pocket cost the patient must pay before the insurance carrier will provide benefits
- Assignment of Benefits form authorizes the insurance company to pay the dentist directly
- Predetermination of benefits involves finding out what services are covered and the amounts paid beforehand
- Dental insurance plans have different types of benefits, including a schedule of benefits, fixed fee methods, and capitation plans
- HMOs and DMOs are capitation plans that limit patients to visiting specific dentists within the plan
Dental Insurance Concerns
- A concern of dentists is that insurance companies may dictate diagnosis, treatment, and fees for service
- A direct reimbursement plan is a self-funded plan where the subscriber pays the dentist directly
- Franchises are groups of dental offices that operate under a brand name
- Children covered by a parent's plan are called dependents
- Premiums are the regular payments paid by the insured to remain covered
- Workers' compensation insurance covers dental services related to work-related accidents
Determining Patient Eligibility and Benefits
- The dental assistant needs to ask the patient for a copy of their insurance card
- The assistant should call the number on the back of the card to verify eligibility and benefits
- The assistant should verify that the patient is currently enrolled in the plan and confirm dental coverage, including deductibles and copays
- It's important to clarify any policy limitations or clauses that affect the coverage
Gingival Retraction Cord
- Available in plain, twisted, or braided
- Plain cord needs twisting before use
- Comes in various thicknesses
- Chemical cords cause tissue shrinkage, widening the sulcus
- Some cords contain bleeding-control chemicals
- Nonchemical cords retract tissue physically
- A cord-packing instrument has spatula-shaped ends for gentle cord placement
Provisional Crown Forceps
- Used in fixed prosthodontic procedures
- Designed to grip and apply pressure to a provisional crown
- Loosen temporary cement and lift the crown gently
- Offer tactile feel for accurate removal
- Prevent damage to the temporary crown
Wax Wafer
- Used for bite registration after tooth preparation
- Thin, approximately 1/8 inch thick
- Helps determine clearance for the prosthesis
Tray Setup
- Every procedure requires a unique tray setup
- Arrange instruments and supplies according to the sequence of the procedure
- Dentist specifies necessary equipment, materials, and instruments
Advantages of Fixed Prosthetic Devices
- Secure in the mouth
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Restores function for many years
- Restores efficient chewing
- Enhances appearance and self-esteem
- Improves speech
- Promotes good oral hygiene and dental health
- Prevents further tooth movement
Indications and Contraindications for Crowns or Bridges
- Indications: Healthy tissues, healthy abutment teeth, good overall health, motivation for oral hygiene
- Contraindications: Diseased or missing supportive tissues, unsuitable abutment teeth, poor overall health, lack of motivation for prosthesis maintenance
Types of Crowns
- Full metal crown: Made of gold alloy, palladium, nickel alloy, or chromium alloy; ideal for back teeth where appearance is less important
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown: Full metal crown with a porcelain outer layer; stronger than all-porcelain crowns, more natural-looking than full metal crowns
- Porcelain jacket crown: Very thin metal shell covered with porcelain; used on anterior teeth due to their natural appearance; less strong than PFM or full metal crowns
Procedural Steps
- Proper hand hygiene and PPE are essential
- Retraction cord is packed between the tooth and sulcus
- Cord-packing instrument ensures secure cord placement below the margin
- Excess hemostatic agent is rinsed away
- Two cords are packed, the thicker one on top of the finer one
- Margins are checked for visibility
- Dentist refines margins and checks clearance with a wax wafer
- HVE provides moisture control
- Thicker cord is removed before final impression
- Finer cord remains for tissue retraction during the final impression
- Finer cord is removed before cementing the provisional crown
Fabricate and Place Provisional Coverage
- Proper barriers are in place
- A triple tray is loaded with elastomeric impression material
- A preliminary impression is taken
- Dentist prepares the tooth for a permanent crown
- Light-bodied elastomeric material is extruded around the preparation
- Heavy-bodied elastomeric material is loaded into the triple tray
- Patient bites in natural occlusion for five minutes
- Impression is removed and inspected, then disinfected
- Crown/bridge provisional material is placed in the initial provisional crown impression tray
- Tray is placed in the patient's mouth for one minute
- Material is allowed to cure for three to four minutes
- Patient's mouth is rinsed, and loose acrylic material is checked
- Provisional crown is checked for set-up
- Flash is trimmed away
- Acrylic dust is cleared
- Provisional crown is tried on for fit and adjusted
- Occlusion is checked with articulating paper and adjusted
- Margins are checked with an explorer
- Provisional crown is polished
- Preparation is rinsed and dried
The Frankel Scale
- Measures a child's emotional intelligence
Behavior Management Techniques
- Voice control: Gets the patient's attention and establishes authority
- Positive reinforcement: Rewards desired behavior
- Tell-show-do: Overcomes fear of unknown procedures, works well for children with Asperger's syndrome
Managing Difficult Behavior
- When a patient's behavior gets out of control, a papoose board may be used to safely restrain the patient.
Special Dentistry
- Special dentistry is required for patients with profound intellectual disabilities.
Down Syndrome
- Characteristics of Down syndrome include:
- Slanted eyes
- Slightly depressed bridge of nose
- Some form of intellectual disability
Autism
- Patients with autism are particularly frightened by:
- Strange smells
- Loud sounds
Cerebral Palsy
- Athetosis, a characteristic of cerebral palsy, refers to uncontrollable, involuntary, uncoordinated movements
"Drill-the-Skill" Method
- An excellent method for working with patients with profound intellectual disability
Dental Examination Types
- Extraoral exam: Evaluates the patient's face for abnormal skeletal characteristics
Pediatric Dentistry
- Pediatric dentists treat patients from infancy to adolescence, as well as patients with special needs, regardless of age.
- Pediatric dentists require three more years of education than other dentists.
- Dental assistants in pediatric practices play a more active role in preventive dental care than in other practices.
- Décor is important in a pediatric dental office because children are more sensitive to their environment than adults.
- Dentist and dental assistants often wear bright colored uniforms.
- The size of the dental chair may be different in a pediatric dental office.
Child Development Stages
- Toddlers: Crave independence and use conversation and physical activity to communicate
- Preschoolers: Startled by sudden sounds and movements, but not too fearful of strangers
Infant Concerns
- A serious concern for infants is gagging.
Orthodontics
- Treatment with orthodontic appliances generally ranges from 3 to 5 years.
- Most orthodontic offices have an open bay setup with multiple chairs in one room.
- This helps orthodontists treat multiple patients at once and makes children and parents feel more relaxed.
- Orthodontist assistants have many hands-on duties.
- The suffix "version" appears at the end of each malocclusion term.
- Overbite: Top front teeth don't align properly with the bottom teeth.
- Class III malocclusion: Mandible is in an abnormal mesial relationship with the maxilla (underbite).
- Cephalometric x-ray: A standardized radiograph of the head showing the skull, bones, and soft tissue.
- The orthodontist diagnoses malocclusions, devises a treatment plan, explains it to the patient, and carries out the plan.
- An orthodontic assistant aids in bracket placement, removal of elastomeric rings, and excess bonding material removal.
- Hawley retainer: The most common removable retainer, made of self-polymerizing acrylic with wire clasps for molar use.
- Preemptive treatment: May include space maintainers or removal of primary teeth.
- Nickel titanium arch wire: Used in the initial stages of orthodontic treatment because of its flexibility.
- Separators: Small, rounded elastics that create space between teeth.
- Arch wire: The wire placed in each bracket, used to guide the gradual movement of teeth.
- Buccal tubes: Auxiliary attachments placed on the maxillary first molar bands.
- Rectangular arch wires: Used in the final stages of treatment to give teeth more stability and apply more force.
- Weingart pliers: Used by the orthodontist to position brackets in the bracket slots.
-
Damon System: Advantages include:
- No need for elastic or metal ties
- Fewer appointments
- Wax: Can be used to prevent cement from getting into attachments when bonding bands.
Children's Oral Health
- Children generally require radiographs more often than adults because they are growing.
- Rubber cup prophylaxis involves polishing the patient's teeth with a rotating rubber cup.
- Cariogenic foods contain refined sugars that are broken down by bacteria and form acid, leading to dental caries.
- Healthy teeth and bones are built with calcium and phosphorus.
- Children who cannot drink cow's milk may be deficient in calcium and Vitamin D.
- Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption.
- Children with celiac disease may be unable to absorb Vitamin D.
- Fluoride treatments are best for protecting the smooth surfaces of enamel.
- Sealants are best for protecting pits and fissures.
- A space maintainer should be used when a primary tooth falls out prematurely and it is a long time before the permanent tooth comes in.
- Stainless steel is the most appropriate material for making crowns for children.
X-Rays
- Reasons to x-ray an edentulous patient: Impacted teeth, cysts
- Panoramic x-rays: useful for identifying tooth eruption patterns and detecting impacted teeth
- Panoramic x-ray positioning: patient movement is important for avoiding errors
- Positioning of the Frankfort plane: does not help avoid errors
Impressions
- Impression types: alginate, preliminary, registration, final
- Bite registration: shows the occlusal relationship of the maxillary and mandibular teeth
- Impression tray types: quadrant, section, half-arch, full-arch
- Triple tray: takes a quadrant, section and registration impression at the same time
- Stock tray fitting: should extend over the last molar area
- Creating a diagnostic quality impression: use the correct size tray and bead the border of the tray
- Elastomeric materials stages of curing: initial cure, middle cure and final cure
Lab Infection and Safety
- Infection control in the lab: rinsing the impression with an approved disinfectant and soaking in an approved disinfectant for between one and twenty-four hours
- Safety procedures in the lab: reading the Safety Data Sheet, disinfecting work areas, tools and equipment, and avoiding activities that put you at risk like eating or drinking
Taking Impressions
- Maxillary alginate impression: center the tray over the teeth, press the posterior part of the tray up against the posterior border of the palate, and do not lift the patient’s lip while you seat the tray
- Alginate mixing: mix for three to four minutes, be careful not to use too much water
- Alginate removal: slightly turn the tray to the side and remove it from the mouth
- Automix impression: avoid air pockets by NOT lifting the tip while filling the tray, wipe a moistened finger along the material to smooth the surface, place the heavy-bodied material directly onto the prepared tooth and surrounding tissues
- Wax bite registration: ask the patient to bite normally into the wax
- Gypsum material mixing: the ratio of powder to water must be exact for proper strength and dimensional accuracy of the model
Models - Pouring and Trimming
- Double pour model: always pour the anatomic portion first before you mix the gypsum for the base portion
- Model trimming: use a model trimmer to trim off excess dental stone, make sure to only let the water flow on the grinding wheel while trimming the art portion
Trays and Impression Materials
- Thermoplastic trays: can be used to create bleaching trays, temporary coverage for crowns and bridges, but not dentures
- Acrylic resin trays: mix the material and fill the tray in less than one minute, be careful with the liquid component because it is hazardous
- Thermoplastic resin tray creation: use a vacuum former to heat it until it is pliable, trim it with a model trimmer so it doesn’t cover the gingiva
- Vibrator: used to vibrate the rubber bowl to ensure complete and proper mixing, and to vibrate excess air out of the mixture of dental stone
- Model trimmer: used for trimming excess dental stone
Working with Alginate
- Alginate working time: period of time the manufacturer suggests to mix, load and place material into the patient’s mouth
- Strong gag reflex: use an alginate with a faster initial set
- Elastomeric impressions: have a rubber-like property that keeps them from tearing or bending out of shape
- Zinc phosphate: must be mixed on a chilled surface, add powder in small increments
Restorative Procedures
- Restorative materials: provisional materials are stronger and more durable than those used for intermediate restorations
- Restorative procedure safety: use a dental dam, follow protective protocols, and do not have the patient forego eyewear
- Dental assistant's restoration role: secure a clear field of vision, properly position the HVE, and purge water hoses
- Restorative procedures: mix amalgam, deliver local anesthesia, evaluate tooth
- Dental assistant's expanded functions: may be able to apply sealant
Additional Restorative Materials
- Deep preparation materials: etchant, bonding agent
- Liner types: calcium hydroxide
- Etchant application: apply for the amount of time indicated by the manufacturer
- Dentin sealer: used with resin, not amalgam or zinc
- Matrix system: provides a temporary wall for certain restorations
- Class II restoration matrix system: Tofflemire retainer
Endodontic Procedures
- During a pulpectomy procedure, the dental assistant anticipates the endodontist's needs, transfers instruments, and irrigates the canal.
- The initial step in prepping a patient for a pulpectomy is to record the patient's chief complaint.
- If a patient has reversible pulpitis, they will need local anesthetic.
- After placing the dental dam, the next step in the procedure is to take another radiograph.
- When the endodontist removes debris and enlarges the canal during a root canal, the dental assistant transfers different sized files and irrigates the canal.
- The smallest file is number 02 and is gray.
- After irrigation, the dental assistant should have paper points ready to dry the canal.
- After filling the canal, the endodontist places a temporary restoration.
- The goal of pulp capping is to save the pulp.
- Gutta-percha is used as a filling material for the root canal.
- Sodium hypochlorite is used as an irrigation solution during a root canal procedure.
- Paper points are used to dry the canal after irrigation.
- Glass ionomer is used as restorative cement to seal the root canal.
- Properties of root canal sealers include: moisture resistant, inhibiting bacteria, and avoiding shrinkage.
Chief Complaints
- A chief complaint refers to the patient's subjective account of the problem.
Periodontal Disease
- Periodontitis is a gum disease.
- Osseous means bone.
- A periodontal probe is used to measure periodontal readings around each tooth.
- A thorough medical history can help reveal systemic findings that contribute to gum disease.
- Localized inflammation involves one tooth or a limited area of the mouth.
- A periodontal explorer is used to check the root surfaces for plaque, calculus, and furcation involvement.
- A bleeding index indicates how much bleeding occurs after gentle probing.
- The main goal of dental prophylaxis is to remove all plaque, calculus, and stain above the gum line.
- Root planing is used to remove calculus or necrotic cementum embedded in the root surface.
- Gingival curettage involves scraping the inside lining of the periodontal pocket to remove necrotic tissue.
- Doxycycline is the drug of choice when administering antibiotics for periodontal disease.
Orthodontic Appliances
- Facebow - placed on maxillary first molar bands for facebow appliance
- Frankel Herbst appliance - cap-like device; controls growth of the maxilla or retracts anterior teeth
- Headgear - stabilizes or moves maxillary first molar distally; creates more room in arch
- Headgear tubes - small metal hooks; placed on the facial surface of bands on second molars
- High pull traction - moves lower jaw forward
- Labial hooks - brackets; placed on the lingual side of bands; stabilize arch; anchor braces; assist movement
- Lingual arch attachments - top coating of optical glass fibers; used in initial stages of alignment; light force
- Nickel titanium - used during initial stages because of its flexibility
- Opti flex - removable elastic appliances molded to fit teeth; hold teeth in desired position during final treatment
- Orthopedic corrector - orthopedic appliance for correcting a Class II malocclusion
- Positioners - removable appliance that expands palate
- Stainless steel - used to apply more force due to its stiffness and strength
- Traction device - fits around the patient’s neck; stabilizes the first molars or moves them distally
- Wire ligatures - thin wires, twisted around the bracket; hold arch wire in place
Orthodontic Appliances
- Activator - contains a U-shaped arch; lower surface on side of lower jaw; higher surface on side of upper jaw
- Aligners - clear, plastic, computer-customized devices; two-week use
- Arch wire - forces movement of teeth through its attachment
- Auxiliary attachments - thin metal rings; secure orthodontic attachments to teeth
- Bands - metal, ceramic, plastic; anchor arch wire
- Beta titanium - provides strength, flexibility and memory; for placing bands
- Bionator - removable device that expands palate
- Brackets - small metal parts of bracket; welded to cheek side of molar band
- Buccal tubes - tubes and hooks; connected to brackets and bands; attach arch wires and elastics to teeth
- Cervical traction - combination of a high-pull strap and a chin cup that fits on mandible
- Chin cap traction - fits around the patient’s neck; stabilizes the first molars or moves them distally
- Combination traction - combines the features of the high-pull and cervical traction devices
- Continuous wire ties - made of plastic or rubberlike material; many colors
- Elastic chain ties - continuous, round rings; form a chain; close space between teeth; correct rotated teeth
- Elastomeric ties - close spaces; or placed where two or more teeth are ligated together
Instruments
- Band plugger - seats the molar band for a fixed appliance
- Bird beak pliers - fit bands for fixed or removable appliances
- Bite stick - molded plastic handle; triangular form, bend wires for fixed or removable appliances
- Bracket placement tweezers - reverse-action tweezers; serrated tips; place bonded bracket on tooth
- Contouring pliers - finely serrated narrow beaks to tie ligatures
- Howe pliers - flat, rounded, serrated tip; place or remove adjustment bands in arch wire
- Ligature director - guides elastic around bracket
- Ligature-tying pliers - places and removes brackets, elastomeric rings, excess bonding materials
- Orthodontic scaler - serrated working area; places molar band for fixed appliance
- Pin-and-ligature cutter - cuts ligature wire once it’s around bracket
- Posterior band removing pliers - removes bands without stressing teeth
- Three-prong pliers - close and adjust clasps
- Weingart utility pliers - hold, bend, adjust arch wires to create movement
- Wire bending pliers - serrated, narrow beaks for placing arch wires
Oral Pathology
- Lab evaluation - dentist takes a microscopic to check appearance of an oral lesion
- Lesions - abnormal tissues in oral cavity
- Malignant - cancerous; life threatening
- Microscopic evaluation - the study of the signs and symptoms of disease and disorders of oral cavity
- Nodule - small, round and solid; lie either above or below the mucosal surface
- Oral pathology - blood chemistries, cultures and other tests
- Periapical granuloma - found within bone at highest point of a dead tooth
- Pustule - resembles a pimple with pus
- Radiographic evaluation - provides information about impacted teeth, internal resorption or tumors in jaw
- Rampant caries - multiple lesions that spread through mouth
- Recurrent carries - secondary; form after teeth have been restored
- Surgical outcomes - diagnosis is based on findings from a surgical procedure
- Therapeutic evaluation - treatment and evaluation of results
- Tumor - a mass or tissue grows beyond normal size
- Ulcer - a crater-like break in mucosa
X-Ray Terminology
- Radiation absorbed dose is the amount of radiation something receives.
- Radiograph is another name for an x-ray image.
- Radiation exposure occurs when radiation contacts any substance.
- Radiology is the medical branch that uses x-rays for diagnosis and treatment.
- Scatter radiation is created when matter deflects part of an x-ray.
- Somatic cells are all cells except reproductive cells.
- Threshold dose is the smallest amount of radiation that can cause biological or harmful effects.
- Wavelength is the distance between wave peaks.
X-Ray Equipment & Materials
- Cathode is part of an x-ray tube that generates electrons.
- Cathode rays are negatively charged particles.
- X-ray tube is where x-rays are created; made of cellulose acetate.
- PID is part of the tube head that aims the x-ray beam.
- Aluminum filter removes low energy rays from the beam.
- Collimator is a metal disk with a small opening that limits the size of the beam.
- Insulating oil fills the inside of the tube head and absorbs heat.
- Lead foil sheet is placed behind the film to protect it from scatter radiation.
X-Ray Procedures & Techniques
- Exposure button controls the flow of electricity that passes through the cathode.
- mA setting on the control panel adjusts the flow of milliamperes.
- Kilovoltage peak meter on the control panel shows the level of penetration power of the beam.
- Milliamperes are a measurement unit for mA; electric current.
- Exposure time controls how long the x-ray beam is on.
- Film speed is determined by the size of silver halide crystals.
- Film packet stores the film and protects it from moisture and light.
Radiograph Characteristics & Image Quality
- Density is how dark an x-ray looks.
- Contrast is the difference between shades of gray near each other.
- Distortion refers to how much a tooth in an x-ray looks distorted.
- Elongated describes a tooth that looks longer than reality.
- Foreshortened describes a tooth that looks shorter than reality.
- High definition describes a high level of sharpness or clarity.
- Gray scale describes the range of shades from white to black.
- Radiolucent describes substances that radiation can easily pass through.
- Radiopaque describes substances that radiation does not easily pass through.
Image Capture & Processing
- Direct digital imaging involves placing a sensor in the oral cavity.
- Indirect digital imaging uses an existing radiograph, similar to scanning.
- Electronic intraoral sensor is a digital image capturing device.
- Sensor system communicates with the computer via a cable or wirelessly.
- Wired system uses cables to connect the sensor to the computer.
- Wireless system uses no wires to connect the sensor to the computer.
- Silver halide crystals are used to store energy from radiation.
- Identification dot distinguishes the left from the right side of the film.
- Impulses are small amounts of exposure time.
Safety & Protection
- Chronic exposure is when the body absorbs small, repeated doses of radiation over time.
- Acute exposure is when the body absorbs a large dose in a short time.
- Critical organs are those organs most sensitive to radiation.
- Lead apron protects patients' organs and reproductive tissues from scatter beams.
- Thyroid collar protects patients’ necks and thyroid areas.
- Leakage radiation is radiation that escapes from the primary beam.
- Maximum permissible dose is the highest amount of radiation the body can tolerate without damage.
- Black wrapper protects the film from harmful light.
- Outer packet protects the film from saliva and light.
Abutment Screws
- Used to support cast crowns.
- Amplifies surface area to provide stability for the crown.
Bridge Threader
- Used to pull dental floss under the pontic of a bridge.
Core Buildup
- Restorative material attached to anchors.
- Serves as a foundational support for a cast crown.
Implantologists
- Specialists in dental implant surgery.
Laboratory Description
- Describes the restoration in detail.
- Provides precise instructions to a lab technician for fabricating the restoration.
Master Impression
- The final impression of the tooth that will receive a crown.
Opaquer
- Used in dentistry.
- Substance that is too dense to see through and is used to mask the color of underlying structures.
Post
- Placed in the root canal when the tooth no longer has vital pulp.
Restorative Phase
- Occurs once tissue heals from stage 1 surgery.
- Abutment posts are placed.
Seat Date
- Date that a patient is expected back in the office.
Stage 1 Surgery
- Dentist drills and places titanium implants in bone.
Stage 2 Surgery
- Dentist peels back the soft tissues to expose the titanium implants.
Temporization
- Process to make and place a provisional covering.
Try-in Visit
- Dentist focuses on ensuring that castings correctly fit.
Artificial Teeth
- Made of acrylic or porcelain.
Base
- Part of the denture that fits over the residual alveolar ridge and surrounding gingival area.
Connectors; Bars
- Joins various parts of the partial denture.
Denture Rest
- Controls seating and stability of the prosthesis.
- Prevents the partial denture from moving.
Flange
- Portion of the base that extends over the attached mucosa from the cervical teeth margin to the denture’s border.
Framework
- Metal skeleton that provides support for the rest of the components of the partial denture.
Full Denture
- Removable prosthesis that replaces all teeth in one arch.
Immediate Denture
- Prosthesis placed immediately after extracting the patient's remaining teeth.
Main Connector
- Piece of rigid metal that joins the right and left quadrants of the framework.
Minor Connector
- Links the major connector to the base and other areas such as rests and clasps.
Overdenture
- Full denture supported by the bony ridge and oral mucosa, plus two or more remaining natural teeth or implants.
Partial Denture
- Removable prosthesis that replaces one or more teeth in the same arch.
Post Dam
- Extension at the back of a full denture.
- Creates a seal between the posterior border of the maxillary denture and mouth tissues.
Retainer; Clasp
- Supports and provides stability to the partial denture by encircling the abutment teeth.
Tori
- Common, benign bone growths that occur in the oral cavity.
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Explore the essential components of a dental office layout, including key areas such as sterilization, reception, and treatment zones. Additionally, learn about various dental specialties and their focus areas, including public health and endodontics. This quiz will enhance your understanding of how dental practices are organized and specialized.