NBDHE Community Oral Health Principles 2

Question 1

Which epidemiological index is most commonly used to measure dental caries prevalence in community surveys?

Accepted Answer

DMFT index

Answer

The DMFT index (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth) is the standard WHO-endorsed tool for measuring caries experience in permanent dentition in community oral health surveys.

Question 2

What is the primary goal of primary prevention in community dental health?

Accepted Answer

Preventing disease before it occurs

Answer

Primary prevention aims to prevent the onset of disease entirely through measures such as fluoridation, sealants, and oral hygiene education before disease begins.

Question 3

Which water fluoride concentration is currently recommended by the U.S. Public Health Service for community water fluoridation?

Accepted Answer

0.7 mg/L

Answer

The USPHS updated its recommendation in 2015 to 0.7 mg/L (ppm) for community water fluoridation, replacing the previous range of 0.7–1.2 mg/L.

Question 4

The Social Learning Theory used in oral health education suggests that behavior change is most effectively achieved through:

Accepted Answer

Observational learning and self-efficacy

Answer

Bandura's Social Learning Theory emphasizes observational learning (modeling) and self-efficacy — a person's belief in their ability to perform a behavior — as key drivers of behavior change.

Question 5

A dental hygienist conducting a community needs assessment should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Define the target population and gather existing data

Answer

The first step in a community needs assessment is defining the target population and reviewing existing data (census records, prior surveys, health department data) before designing any program.

NBDHE Test Practice Test

NBDHE Test Practice Test

NBDHE Community Oral Health Principles 2