Free DMD Restorative Procedures & Prosthodontics Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the purpose of a dental filling?

To extract a tooth
To whiten teeth
To restore a decayed tooth (Correct answer)
To support gum tissue

Correct answer: To restore a decayed tooth

The primary purpose of a dental filling is to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay (a cavity). After the decayed portion is removed, the filling material is used to fill the void, restoring the tooth's original shape, function, and integrity. This prevents further decay and protects the tooth from sensitivity or fracture.

Question 2: Which material is commonly used for aesthetic anterior restorations?

Amalgam
Gold foil
Composite resin (Correct answer)
Zinc oxide

Correct answer: Composite resin

Composite resin is the material of choice for aesthetic anterior restorations due to its tooth-colored appearance and ability to bond directly to the tooth structure. It can be matched to the natural shade of the patient's teeth, making it virtually invisible, and is ideal for repairing chips, cracks, or cavities in the front teeth where aesthetics are paramount.

Question 3: What is the main function of a dental crown?

To clean the tooth surface
To prevent staining
To cover and protect a weakened tooth (Correct answer)
To polish enamel

Correct answer: To cover and protect a weakened tooth

A dental crown, often referred to as a "cap," is a custom-made restoration that completely covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. Its main function is to restore a severely damaged, fractured, or weakened tooth, providing strength, protection, and restoring its original shape, size, and function. This prevents further breakdown and extends the tooth's lifespan.

Question 4: What is a bridge used for in prosthodontics?

To strengthen gums
To close orthodontic gaps
To replace missing teeth (Correct answer)
To support removable dentures

Correct answer: To replace missing teeth

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by "bridging" the gap between existing teeth or implants. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by crowns cemented onto the natural teeth or implants adjacent to the gap. This restores chewing function, maintains alignment, and improves aesthetics.

Question 5: Which condition is most likely to require full-mouth reconstruction?

Slight discoloration
Mild gingivitis
Advanced tooth wear (Correct answer)
Minor enamel chipping

Correct answer: Advanced tooth wear

Full-mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive treatment involving multiple dental procedures to restore the entire mouth. It is typically required for patients with extensive dental problems, such as advanced tooth wear (due to grinding or acid erosion), multiple missing teeth, severe decay, or bite problems. Mild conditions like discoloration or gingivitis would not necessitate such extensive treatment.

Question 6: What is an inlay used for?

To bleach teeth
To support orthodontic braces
To restore a cavity within the cusps (Correct answer)
To numb soft tissue

Correct answer: To restore a cavity within the cusps

An inlay is a custom-made restoration used to repair a cavity or damage that lies within the cusps (the chewing surfaces) of a tooth, without extending to the outer surfaces. It is fabricated outside the mouth and then cemented into place, offering a more durable and precise restoration than a direct filling for moderate decay.

Question 7: Which prosthetic option is ideal for a completely edentulous patient?

Partial denture
Retainer
Complete denture (Correct answer)
Crown

Correct answer: Complete denture

For a completely edentulous patient, meaning someone who has lost all their natural teeth in an arch, a complete denture is the ideal prosthetic option. It is a removable appliance designed to replace all missing teeth and surrounding tissues, restoring chewing function, speech, and facial aesthetics. Partial dentures are for patients with some remaining natural teeth.

Question 8: Which material is typically used for permanent posterior restorations due to durability?

Glass ionomer
Amalgam (Correct answer)
Sealant
Temporary cement

Correct answer: Amalgam

Amalgam, often referred to as silver fillings, has historically been a preferred material for permanent posterior restorations due to its exceptional durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness. Its ability to withstand high chewing forces in the back of the mouth makes it a reliable choice for long-lasting restorations in areas where aesthetics are less of a concern.

Question 9: What is the function of a post and core?

To clean the root
To support a crown on a root canal–treated tooth (Correct answer)
To prevent gum recession
To stabilize orthodontic wires

Correct answer: To support a crown on a root canal–treated tooth

A post and core is a dental restoration used when a significant amount of tooth structure is lost, typically after a root canal procedure. The post is inserted into the root canal to provide retention, while the core rebuilds the missing tooth structure. This creates a stable and strong foundation, allowing a crown to be securely placed and supported on the compromised tooth.

Free DMD Restorative Procedures & Prosthodontics Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of a dental filling?