Dentistry

A dental hygienist can practice anywhere in the United States with a single license.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Dental Hygienists must be licensed by the state in which they practice.

A Dental Hygienist DOES NOT perform which of the following duties?

• Cleaning teeth

• Applying cavity-preventative agents

• Take and develop dental X-Rays

• Write prescriptions for antibiotics after tooth extraction

Answer explanation

Only dentist can write a prescription or extract teeth. Dental hygienists clean teeth and provide other preventive dental care; they also teach patients how to practice good oral hygiene. Hygienists examine patients' teeth and gums, recording the presence of diseases or abnormalities. They remove tartar, stains, and plaque from teeth; take and develop dental X-rays, and apply cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides and put and fissure sealants.

A dental laboratory technician needs to have good vision, good dexterity, and an eye for detail.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Dental Techs need a high degree of manual dexterity, good vision, and the ability to recognize very fine color shadings and variations in shape. An artistic aptitude for detailed and precise work also is important.

Which of the following are NOT common specialties in dentistry?

• Orthodontist

• Obstetrician

• Prosthodontist

• Endodontist

• Pulmonologist

Answer explanation

Most dentists are general practitioners, handling a variety of dental needs. Other dentists practice in any of nine specialty areas. Orthodontists, the largest group of specialists, straighten teeth by applying pressure to the teeth with braces or other appliances.

Prosthodontists replacing missing teeth with permanent fixtures, such as crowns and bridges, or with removable fixtures such as dentures while endodontists perform root-canal therapy.

Which of the following ARE common specialties in dentistry?

• Oral Pathologist

• Periodontist

• Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon

• Hematologist

• Gerontologist

Answer explanation

Most dentists are general practitioners, handling a variety of dental needs. Other dentists practice in any of nine specialty areas. The second largest group, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, operates on the mouth, jaws, teeth, gums, neck, and head.

Periodontists treat gums and bone supporting the teeth.

What is the basic level of education requried for a dental laboratory technician?

• Associate's Degree

• Bachelor's Degree

• There is no set level of education required

• High School Diploma

Answer explanation

Most dental laboratory technicians learn their craft on the job; many employers, however, prefer to hire those with formal training or at least a high school diploma.

Most full time dentists work how many hours per week?

• 40-50

• 35-40

• 80-100

• 60-80

Answer explanation

Most dentists are solo practitioners, meaning that they own thier own businesses and work alone. Most work 4 or 5 days a week, between 35-40 hours a week unless trying to establish a new practice.

Entry level educational requirements for a dental hygienist include a state license and which of the following?

• A degree from an accredited dental hygiene school

• A Bachelor's degree in health science

• A high school diploma

• None of these are correct

Answer explanation

All states require licensure. A degree from an accredited dental hygiene school and a state license are required for this job.

All states require dental ASSISTANTS to complete a minimum of which of the following?

• Associates Degree

• High School Diploma or Equivalent

• Job training

• States have varying requirements

Answer explanation

State law determines which clinical tasks a dental assistant may perform.

ADHA is the acronym for which of the following?

• All Dentists Have Assistants

• American Dental Hygienists Association

• American Diabetic Help Association

• Associated Dental Hygienists of America

Answer explanation

Founded in 1923, the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) is the largest national organization representing the professional interests of the more than 226,000 registered dental hygienists (RDHs) across the country.