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

The RPE is activated incrementally, applying lateral force to the palatal shelves that separates the unfused midpalatal suture, increasing the width of the maxillary arch to treat constriction or posterior crossbite.

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

Superelastic NiTi wires have shape memory and low load-deflection, meaning they apply gentle, sustained forces even when deflected significantly to engage brackets on extremely misaligned teeth.

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

Headgear uses an external facebow inserted into molar tubes connected by straps to a cervical pad or headcap, applying extraoral orthopedic or orthodontic force to the maxilla.

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

A broken bracket should be repaired promptly to avoid delaying treatment progress; avoiding hard foods prevents further breakage while the patient waits for the repair appointment.

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

Interarch elastics run from hooks on upper brackets or bands to hooks on lower brackets, generating forces that correct anteroposterior, vertical, or transverse discrepancies between the arches.

EFDA - Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification Practice Test

EFDA - Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification Practice Test

EFDA Orthodontic Procedures & Appliances 2