ADC - Australian Dental Council Operative and Restorative Dentistry Questions and Answers

Question 1

A 45-year-old patient with a high caries risk presents with a Class II lesion on tooth 46.
The distal marginal ridge is intact, but the caries extends gingivally below the cementoenamel junction (CEJ).
Considering a minimally invasive approach and the patient's risk profile, which of the following is the most appropriate restorative technique for the Australian context?

Accepted Answer

An open 'sandwich' technique, using glass ionomer cement (GIC) to restore the gingival portion and layering composite resin occlusally.

Answer

A conventional Class II amalgam restoration with retentive grooves.

Answer

A direct composite resin restoration, ensuring meticulous isolation and bonding to the gingival margin.

Answer

A full-coverage gold crown to provide maximum durability.

Question 2

A 7-year-old child presents for their first dental visit. Clinical examination reveals deep, sticky fissures on the permanent first molars (16, 26, 36, 46) with no radiographic evidence of caries. According to contemporary Australian caries management guidelines, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Applying a high-viscosity glass ionomer cement as a fissure sealant.

Answer

Placing prophylactic amalgam restorations in all fissures.

Answer

Prescribing a high-fluoride toothpaste (5000 ppm) for daily use.

Answer

Scheduling the patient for a six-month review with no active treatment.

Question 3

When preparing a moderate-sized Class I cavity for a direct composite resin restoration on a mandibular molar, which of the following cavity design principles is most consistent with modern adhesive dentistry practices in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Following the outline of the carious lesion, resulting in a conservative, 'scooped-out' preparation with rounded internal line angles.

Answer

Creating convergent walls and a flat pulpal floor for macromechanical retention.

Answer

Extending the preparation to include all adjacent fissures for 'extension for prevention'.

Answer

Placing retentive grooves in the dentin to prevent dislodgement of the restoration.

Question 4

A dentist in Australia is selecting a new composite resin for posterior restorations. To ensure the material is approved for use, which regulatory body's approval is essential?

Accepted Answer

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

Answer

The Australian Dental Association (ADA)

Answer

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

Answer

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Question 5

Which of the following statements best reflects the current evidence-based approach to managing an initial, non-cavitated carious lesion on the proximal surface of a posterior tooth in an adult patient with low caries risk in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Application of a professionally applied high-concentration fluoride varnish and radiographic monitoring.

Answer

Immediate operative intervention with a slot preparation and direct composite.

Answer

Prescribing an antimicrobial mouthrinse to eliminate cariogenic bacteria.

Answer

Restoring the lesion with a preventative resin restoration (PRR).

Question 6

A 68-year-old patient presents with significant cervical abrasion and dentine hypersensitivity on teeth 33, 34, and 35. The lesions are shallow but wide. Which restorative material would be most suitable for restoring these non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) considering both restorative and therapeutic benefits?

Accepted Answer

Resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) for its adhesion and fluoride release.

Answer

Micro-filled composite resin for superior polishability.

Answer

Dental amalgam for its proven longevity.

Answer

A full-coverage ceramic veneer for optimal aesthetics.