EFDA Orthodontic Procedures & Appliances 2

Question 1

What does a rapid palatal expander (RPE) accomplish in orthodontic treatment?

Accepted Answer

It widens the maxillary arch by gradually separating the midpalatal suture

Answer

It retracts the maxillary arch posteriorly to correct Class III relationships

Answer

It holds the mandible in a forward protrusive position during growth

Answer

It intrudes the maxillary molars to correct a deep overbite

Question 2

Why are superelastic nickel-titanium archwires preferred for the initial stage of orthodontic treatment?

Accepted Answer

They deliver light, continuous forces and can engage severely malpositioned brackets

Answer

They are the stiffest wires and generate the highest corrective forces

Answer

They have the largest diameter available, providing maximum torque control

Answer

They are the least costly archwire option for routine use

Question 3

What type of force does an orthodontic headgear primarily apply?

Accepted Answer

Extraoral force to restrict maxillary forward growth or retract maxillary teeth

Answer

Intrusive force directed apically to depress maxillary molars

Answer

Lateral force across the palate to widen the maxillary arch

Answer

Rotational force to correct individually tipped teeth

Question 4

If a patient calls to report a broken or loose bracket between appointments, what is the most appropriate advice?

Accepted Answer

Schedule a prompt repair appointment and advise the patient to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods

Answer

Instruct the patient to reattach the bracket using household adhesive until the appointment

Answer

Tell the patient the bracket is not urgent and can wait until the next regularly scheduled visit

Answer

Advise the patient to cut the arch wire adjacent to the broken bracket at home

Question 5

What is the purpose of interarch elastics (rubber bands) that orthodontic patients wear between upper and lower brackets?

Accepted Answer

To apply forces between the upper and lower arches to correct jaw and bite relationships

Answer

To tie the arch wire into the bracket slots on each tooth

Answer

To keep the palatal expander activated between appointments

Answer

To hold a removable retainer securely in the mouth during sleep

Question 6

In orthodontics, the term 'debonding' refers to which procedure?

Accepted Answer

Removing directly bonded brackets from tooth surfaces at the conclusion of treatment

Answer

Activating the palatal expander screw at each appointment visit

Answer

Applying acid etchant to enamel before attaching a new bracket

Answer

Cutting the arch wire during a routine adjustment appointment

Question 7

What is the typical interval between orthodontic adjustment appointments during active treatment?

Accepted Answer

Every 4 to 8 weeks

Answer

Every 1 to 2 days

Answer

Every 2 to 3 weeks

Answer

Every 3 to 6 months