NBDHE Patient Education and Preventive Dentistry Flashcards

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

Answer: The gingival sulcus and margin

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

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

Answer: 0.7 ppm

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.

Dental sealants are most effective when applied to:

Answer: Pit and fissure surfaces of posterior teeth

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

The Snyder colorimetric test assesses oral health by measuring:

Answer: Cariogenic bacterial acid production potential

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

Xylitol reduces caries risk primarily by:

Answer: Inhibiting Streptococcus mutans growth and acid production

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

Primary prevention in dentistry is defined as:

Answer: Preventing disease from occurring in the first place

Primary prevention aims to prevent the onset of disease before it begins, including measures such as fluoride use, sealants, and oral hygiene instruction.