Test Flashcards

There are 12 baby teeth in a child. What age is he or she?

Answer: 12-16 months

Children typically begin erupting their primary (baby) teeth around 6-10 months of age. By 12-16 months, a child would generally have erupted several teeth, often reaching around 8-12 teeth, with the full set of 20 primary teeth usually completing eruption by 2.5-3 years. Therefore, having 12 baby teeth is consistent with the 12-16 month age range.

What should the dentist do while treating children as opposed to adults?

Answer: Be kind to the child and cognizant of their intellectual growth

When treating children, dentists must adapt their approach to account for the child's developmental stage, emotional maturity, and potential anxieties. Being kind, patient, and communicating in an age-appropriate manner helps build trust and cooperation, making the dental experience less stressful. Understanding their intellectual growth allows the dentist to explain procedures in a way they can comprehend, fostering a positive attitude towards dental care.

How do you spot the early warning signs during an exam?

Answer: Enamel white spot and demineralized enamel area

Early dental caries (cavities) often manifest as white spot lesions on the enamel surface, indicating areas where the enamel has begun to demineralize due to acid attack. Identifying these demineralized enamel areas allows for early intervention, such as fluoride application or improved oral hygiene, to potentially reverse the process and prevent the formation of a full cavity.

What caused the tooth coloring to appear on the enamel opaque as a white spot with diffusion striations to a brown mottling?

Answer: Dental fluorosis

Dental fluorosis is a developmental disturbance of tooth enamel caused by excessive intake of fluoride during tooth formation. It manifests as a range of aesthetic changes, from subtle white flecks or opaque spots to more severe brown staining and pitting, depending on the severity of fluoride exposure. This distinct appearance differentiates it from other conditions like tetracycline staining or genetic disorders.

What is known as tooth body enlargement at the expense of the root

Answer: Taurodontism

Taurodontism is a developmental anomaly characterized by an enlarged pulp chamber and a short root trunk, giving the tooth a 'bull-like' appearance. This results in the body of the tooth being significantly larger than normal, extending apically at the expense of the roots. This specific morphological change distinguishes it from inflammatory gum diseases like periodontitis or gingivitis.

Which cavities cannot be treated with ART?

Answer: Deep cavities with exposed pulp and aching teeth

Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) is a minimally invasive approach primarily used for small to medium-sized cavities, especially in resource-limited settings. It is contraindicated for deep cavities with exposed pulp or irreversible pulpitis (aching teeth) because these cases require more complex endodontic treatment or extraction. ART is not designed to address pulp involvement or severe pain.

What may fluoride varnish do?

Answer: Eliminate dental caries and hypersensitivity.

Fluoride varnish is a highly concentrated fluoride preparation applied to tooth surfaces to prevent and reduce dental caries (cavities) by strengthening enamel and promoting remineralization. Additionally, it is effective in reducing dentin hypersensitivity by occluding dentinal tubules, thereby blocking stimuli from reaching the nerve. It offers a dual benefit for oral health.