NDAEB Dental Sciences Foundations 2

Question 1

Which cranial nerve provides sensory innervation to the mandibular teeth and is the target of an inferior alveolar nerve block?

Accepted Answer

Trigeminal nerve (CN V) - mandibular division (V3)

Answer

The inferior alveolar nerve is a branch of the mandibular division (V3) of the trigeminal nerve (CN V), which provides sensory innervation to all mandibular teeth, lower lip, and chin.

Question 2

What is the primary function of ameloblasts during tooth development?

Accepted Answer

Formation of enamel

Answer

Ameloblasts are specialized epithelial cells responsible for producing enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, during the maturation stage of tooth development.

Question 3

Which salivary gland produces predominantly serous (watery) secretions and is the largest salivary gland?

Accepted Answer

Parotid gland

Answer

The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland and produces predominantly serous (watery, enzyme-rich) saliva containing amylase for initial starch digestion.

Question 4

In the permanent dentition, how many roots does a typical maxillary first molar have?

Accepted Answer

Three roots

Answer

The maxillary first molar typically has three roots: two buccal roots (mesiobuccal and distobuccal) and one palatal root, which is usually the largest.

Question 5

What is the normal pH range of healthy saliva in the oral cavity?

Accepted Answer

6.2 to 7.6

Answer

Healthy saliva has a pH range of approximately 6.2 to 7.6, which is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. This pH range helps protect tooth enamel from demineralization.

(NDAEB) National Dental Assisting Examination Board Practice Test

(NDAEB) National Dental Assisting Examination Board Practice Test

NDAEB Dental Sciences Foundations 2