NBDHE NBDHE Patient Education and Preventive Dentistry

Question 1

The Bass toothbrushing technique is most effective at removing plaque from:

Accepted Answer

The gingival sulcus and margin

Answer

The Bass technique positions bristles at 45 degrees toward the gingival sulcus, making it highly effective at removing subgingival plaque at the gingival margin.

Question 2

The US Public Health Service currently recommends community water fluoridation at:

Accepted Answer

0.7 ppm

Answer

Since 2015, the USPHS recommends a single optimal fluoride level of 0.7 mg/L (ppm) in community drinking water to prevent caries while minimizing fluorosis.

Question 3

Dental sealants are most effective when applied to:

Accepted Answer

Pit and fissure surfaces of posterior teeth

Answer

Dental sealants are resin coatings applied to pit and fissure surfaces of molars and premolars, which are the most caries-susceptible surfaces.

Question 4

The Snyder colorimetric test assesses oral health by measuring:

Accepted Answer

Cariogenic bacterial acid production potential

Answer

The Snyder test detects acid production by oral bacteria (primarily Lactobacillus) in a culture medium, reflecting cariogenic potential.

Question 5

Xylitol reduces caries risk primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Inhibiting Streptococcus mutans growth and acid production

Answer

Xylitol is a non-fermentable sugar alcohol that cannot be metabolized by S. mutans, thereby reducing bacterial acid production and adherence to tooth surfaces.

NBDHE Test Practice Test

NBDHE Test Practice Test

NBDHE NBDHE Patient Education and Preventive Dentistry