Dental Materials Board Review - Round 1

What is the most economical and long-lasting restorative material mentioned?

• Gold

• Porcelain

• Dental amalgam

• Composite resin

Answer explanation

Dental amalgam is considered the most economical and long-lasting restorative material due to its durability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to withstand significant chewing forces, making it a preferred choice for many dental restorations.

What is the significance of esthetic materials in dental implants?

• They are the cheapest option

• They vary in material, longevity, and cost

• They are the most durable

• They are the easiest to install

Answer explanation

Esthetic materials in dental implants are significant because they come in various types, affecting their longevity and cost. This diversity allows for tailored solutions based on patient needs and preferences.

What is the goal of rubber-cup polishing?

• To add a protective layer

• To stain the surface

• To remove extrinsic tooth stains

• To increase tooth size

Answer explanation

The goal of rubber-cup polishing is to remove extrinsic tooth stains, which are surface stains caused by food, drinks, and other factors. This process helps restore the natural appearance of teeth.

What is the standard of care in polishing?

• Polishing all surfaces

• Selective polishing

• Using the most abrasive material

• Avoiding polishing altogether

Answer explanation

Selective polishing is the standard of care as it minimizes enamel loss and preserves tooth structure, focusing on areas that require polishing rather than polishing all surfaces indiscriminately.

What is used to polish dental amalgam?

• Aluminum oxide

• Pumice and tin oxide

• Diamond abrasives

• Silicon dioxide

Answer explanation

Pumice and tin oxide are commonly used to polish dental amalgam due to their effective abrasive properties, providing a smooth finish. Other options like aluminum oxide and diamond abrasives are less suitable for this specific application.

What is a precaution when polishing gold restorations?

• Use of power scalers

• Use of rubber-cup polish

• Use of light pressure

• Use of wet field

Answer explanation

Using power scalers can damage gold restorations due to their high speed and force. It's important to avoid this method to maintain the integrity of the restoration.

What type of stain can be removed by power/hand instrumentation?

• Intrinsic/endogenous stain

• Extrinsic/exogenous stain

• Chemical stain

• Biological stain

Answer explanation

Extrinsic/exogenous stains are surface stains caused by external factors, such as food or tobacco, and can be effectively removed using power or hand instrumentation. Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, are internal and cannot be removed this way.

What is considered the standard of care in selective polishing?

• Pumice

• Glycine

• Tin oxide

• Aluminum oxide

Answer explanation

Tin oxide is considered the standard of care in selective polishing due to its effective polishing properties and minimal abrasiveness, making it suitable for dental applications.

What is the most abrasive material mentioned for polishing?

• Pumice

• Glycine

• Tin oxide

• Aluminum oxide

Answer explanation

Pumice is the most abrasive material listed for polishing due to its rough texture, making it effective for smoothing surfaces. Other options like glycine and tin oxide are less abrasive compared to pumice.

What is the main characteristic of alginate as an impression material?

• Reversible hydrocolloid

• Non-aqueous

• Irreversible hydrocolloid

• Addition silicone

Answer explanation

Alginate is classified as an irreversible hydrocolloid because it cannot return to its original state once set. This characteristic makes it suitable for dental impressions, as it captures fine details effectively.