Clinical Dental Sciences Flashcards

Which radiographic technique is most appropriate for detecting proximal caries in posterior teeth?

Answer: Bitewing radiograph

Bitewing radiographs provide a clear image of the proximal surfaces of posterior teeth from the amelocemental junction to the alveolar crest, making them optimal for proximal caries detection.

An electric pulp tester (EPT) primarily tests:

Answer: Pulp neural integrity

The EPT tests the integrity of A-delta nerve fibres within the pulp by applying an electrical stimulus; a response indicates neural function but does not assess pulp vitality (vascularity).

The ideal occlusal scheme for a full arch implant-retained prosthesis is:

Answer: Mutually protected occlusion

Mutually protected occlusion (anterior guidance protects posteriors in excursions; posteriors protect anteriors in ICP load) is the preferred scheme for implant-supported prostheses to minimise lateral forces on implants.

Under the GDC Standards for the Dental Team, which duty is defined as 'putting patients' interests first'?

Answer: Patient-centred care

GDC Standard 1 'Put patients' interests first' encompasses the concept of patient-centred care, ensuring decisions are made with the patient's wellbeing as the primary consideration.

In restorative dentistry, the 'biologic width' refers to:

Answer: The combined dimension of junctional epithelium and connective tissue attachment

Biologic width (approximately 2 mm) is the combined height of junctional epithelium (~1 mm) and supracrestal connective tissue (~1 mm); violation by restorative margins causes inflammation and bone loss.

The correct isolation method for rubber dam placement on an upper right first premolar is:

Answer: Wingless clamp on the premolar only

A wingless (Ivory W8A or similar) clamp seated directly on the premolar is appropriate, providing secure gingivally sealed isolation for endodontic or restorative access.