AAVSB Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Care

Question 1

How many permanent teeth does a normal adult dog have?

Accepted Answer

42

Answer

The adult canine dental formula is 2(I 3/3, C 1/1, P 4/4, M 2/3), which gives 42 permanent teeth. Adult cats have 30.

Question 2

In the modified Triadan system, which tooth is number 104?

Accepted Answer

Right maxillary canine

Answer

The first digit gives the quadrant: 1 is right maxillary, 2 is left maxillary, 3 is left mandibular and 4 is right mandibular. The last two digits give the tooth, and 04 is the canine. So 104 is the right maxillary canine.

Question 3

Which instrument is designed to remove calculus from the subgingival root surface?

Accepted Answer

Periodontal curette

Answer

A curette has a rounded toe and back, so it can be used under the gum line to clean and root-plane with minimal soft-tissue trauma. A pointed scaler is used above the gum line.

Question 4

Why are teeth polished after scaling?

Accepted Answer

To smooth microscopic scratches in the enamel that would attract plaque

Answer

Scaling leaves microscopic scratches on the enamel, and a rough surface collects plaque faster. Polishing with a fine prophy paste smooths the surface and slows plaque re-accumulation.

Question 5

Which finding best fits periodontal disease stage 1 (PD1)?

Accepted Answer

Gingivitis only, with no attachment loss

Answer

Stage 1 is gingivitis with a normal periodontal attachment level and no attachment loss. It is reversible with good plaque control. Attachment loss begins in stage 2.

AAVSB - American Association of Veterinary State Boards Practice Test

AAVSB - American Association of Veterinary State Boards Practice Test

AAVSB Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Care