CDT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CDT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What type of occlusal scheme is most commonly recommended for complete denture patients to maximize stability? → Lingualized occlusion or balanced occlusion
2. What is the primary objective of dental materials science in Certified Dental Technicians practice? → Ensuring consistent quality and adherence to professional standards
3. What defines a cusp-to-fossa occlusal arrangement? → Each supporting cusp is directed into the opposing central fossa
4. What is a protrusive interocclusal record primarily used to set on a semi-adjustable articulator? → The condylar inclination (sagittal condylar guidance)
5. What characterizes a lingualized occlusal scheme used in complete dentures? → Maxillary palatal cusps contact mandibular tooth central fossae exclusively
6. What is the purpose of a custom tray in complete denture fabrication? → To create a close-fitting tray that produces a more accurate final impression
7. Why is stakeholder communication important in dental materials science? → It ensures alignment of expectations and facilitates collaborative decision-making
8. What does a 'wash bake' accomplish in ceramic fabrication? → Applies a thin porcelain wash to correct minor shade discrepancies
9. Which porcelain defect is characterized by small pits or craters on the fired surface? → Pinholes (pitting)
10. Why is burnout important in the casting process? → To remove wax and prepare the mold for casting
11. What material is commonly used for orthodontic wires? → Stainless steel or nickel-titanium
12. What precaution must be taken when grinding or adjusting ceramic restorations chairside or in the lab? → Use copious water cooling and wear appropriate respiratory protection
13. In occlusion terminology, what is the working side? → The side toward which the mandible moves during lateral excursion
14. How is centric occlusion defined in dental terminology? → The position of maximum intercuspation of opposing teeth
15. How should emerging trends in removable prosthodontics be incorporated into practice? → Through evidence-based evaluation and systematic integration into existing protocols
16. What is the primary objective of dental anatomy & morphology in Certified Dental Technicians practice? → Ensuring consistent quality and adherence to professional standards
17. What does 'value' refer to in the Vita shade system? → The lightness or darkness of the shade
18. When addressing challenges in removable prosthodontics, what approach is most effective? → Systematic analysis of root causes followed by evidence-based solutions
19. Why are dental impressions important for appliance fabrication? → To capture detailed anatomical information for appliances
20. What causes porcelain to appear 'gray' or 'flat' after firing in a PFM crown? → Insufficient opaque coverage allowing metal to show through
21. Why is hand hygiene critical in the dental lab? → To prevent the spread of infection
22. What is the envelope of function in occlusion? → The three-dimensional boundary of all mandibular movements during functional activities
23. How should emerging trends in cad/cam digital dentistry be incorporated into practice? → Through evidence-based evaluation and systematic integration into existing protocols
24. What safety precaution is essential when using rotary instruments? → Wear eye protection to prevent injury from debris
25. What is the primary component of dentin? → Mineralized tubules transmitting sensations
26. Which competency is most essential for professionals working in implant prosthetics techniques? → Comprehensive knowledge combined with practical application skills
27. What is the primary purpose of a face-bow transfer in dental prosthetics? → To relate the maxillary cast to the hinge axis of the articulator
28. How should emerging trends in dental anatomy & morphology be incorporated into practice? → Through evidence-based evaluation and systematic integration into existing protocols
29. Which competency is most essential for professionals working in dental materials science? → Comprehensive knowledge combined with practical application skills
30. What distinguishes a semi-adjustable articulator from a fixed average value articulator? → Semi-adjustable articulators can be customized using interocclusal records