DANB CDA Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Nitroglycerin is stocked in the dental office emergency kit primarily to manage which condition? → Angina pectoris
2. What is the primary purpose of fluoride in dental care? → To strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay
3. What is the main purpose of dental sealants? → To protect pit and fissure surfaces of teeth from decay
4. What is the primary focus of the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) certification? → Orthodontic assisting
5. What coding system is used to identify dental procedures for insurance claims? → CDT (Current Dental Terminology) codes
6. When transferring instruments to the dentist, which hand technique is typically used? → Single-handed transfer
7. Which local anesthetic formulation is most appropriate for a patient with a documented sulfite allergy when profound anesthesia is required? → Mepivacaine 3% plain
8. What is the normal resting pulse rate range for an adult? → 60-100 beats per minute
9. Which exam is mandatory for obtaining the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential? → All of the above
10. Which of the following is the most widely recognized DANB certification? → Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
11. Which DANB exam focuses on ensuring knowledge of safety protocols when working with radiographic equipment? → Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
12. What is the function of a matrix band in restorative dentistry? → To provide a temporary wall for the restoration during placement
13. What type of activity qualifies for DANB-approved CE credits? → Watching dental-related webinars
14. What is the correct order of instrument processing before sterilization? → Clean → package → sterilize
15. Which certification is ideal for individuals who are just starting a career in dental assisting? → National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA)
16. What type of dosimeter is commonly used to monitor radiation exposure for dental professionals? → Film badge or optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeter
17. A patient on warfarin (Coumadin) therapy presents for an extraction. The dental team should: → Consult with the patient's physician and assess INR levels before proceeding
18. Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) most commonly occurs in which situation? → After mandibular molar extractions, especially in smokers
19. What does the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard require regarding contaminated sharps? → Dispose of sharps in puncture-resistant containers immediately
20. Which of the following is a sign that a patient may be experiencing an opioid overdose during or after dental sedation? → Pinpoint pupils, respiratory depression, and unresponsiveness
21. What happens if a dental assistant fails to meet the CE requirements for certification renewal? → The certification is suspended until requirements are met.
22. Which type of tooth is primarily designed for tearing food? → Canines
23. What is the primary purpose of a burnisher in restorative dentistry? → To smooth and polish amalgam restorations
24. What should a dental assistant do if a patient reports a latex allergy? → Use non-latex gloves and remove all latex-containing products from the treatment area
25. Which hand instrument is used to remove soft dentin and debris from a cavity preparation? → Spoon excavator
26. Ibuprofen and naproxen belong to which drug class commonly used for dental pain management? → NSAIDs
27. At what age should a child first visit a dentist according to the AAPD? → By age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting
28. Trismus after a dental injection most likely results from: → Trauma or hematoma from multiple needle injections into the pterygoid muscles
29. Which resource does DANB provide to help dental assistants navigate state requirements? → State Career Ladder Maps
30. Why is Continuing Education (CE) important for maintaining DANB certification? → It ensures dental assistants remain informed about industry updates and standards.