NBDHE Dental Hygiene MCQ 2

Question 1

Dental plaque is best defined as:

Accepted Answer

A structured, microbially diverse biofilm that adheres to tooth surfaces and soft tissues and resists removal by rinsing

Answer

Loose food debris that accumulates between teeth

Answer

Calcified mineral deposits on the root surface

Answer

A transient film of salivary proteins without bacteria

Question 2

The role of the dental hygienist during a medical emergency in the dental office is to:

Accepted Answer

Provide basic life support (BLS), assist the dentist, call emergency services (911), and manage the emergency within their training until EMS arrives

Answer

Step aside and let only the dentist manage all emergencies

Answer

Administer all emergency medications without dentist guidance

Answer

Only record what happened and call the patient's physician

Question 3

Which surface of teeth shows the highest plaque scores in patients who are not motivated to practice oral hygiene?

Accepted Answer

Interproximal (proximal) surfaces and the gingival margin on all surfaces

Answer

Occlusal pits and fissures

Answer

Smooth buccal surfaces at the height of contour

Answer

Cusp tips and incisal edges

Question 4

Periodontal probing should be performed at how many sites per tooth for a comprehensive periodontal assessment?

Accepted Answer

6 sites — mesiobuccal, midbuccal, distobuccal, mesiolingual, midlingual, distolingual

Answer

4 sites only — one per corner

Answer

1 site per tooth — deepest point only

Answer

2 sites — buccal and lingual only

Question 5

Which of the following is considered a modifiable risk factor for periodontal disease?

Accepted Answer

Cigarette smoking

Answer

Age

Answer

Genetic predisposition

Answer

Male sex

Question 6

The term 'ergonomics' in dental hygiene practice refers to:

Accepted Answer

The science of designing the work environment and work practices to minimize physical stress and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries in the clinician

Answer

A technique for patient positioning during treatment

Answer

The study of instrument metallurgy and sharpening

Answer

The management of radiation doses in radiography