ADEX Nutrition and Oral Health

Question 1

Which vitamin deficiency is most directly associated with scurvy and impaired wound healing in the oral cavity?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin C

Answer

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency causes scurvy, characterized by impaired collagen synthesis, bleeding gums, and poor wound healing.

Question 2

A patient presents with smooth, shiny tongue and angular cheilitis. Which nutritional deficiency is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Iron deficiency

Answer

Iron deficiency anemia commonly manifests as glossitis (smooth, pale tongue) and angular cheilitis due to impaired epithelial cell turnover.

Question 3

Which carbohydrate characteristic most significantly increases cariogenic potential?

Accepted Answer

High frequency of consumption

Answer

Frequent sugar consumption prolongs acid exposure time on enamel, dramatically increasing caries risk more than total sugar quantity alone.

Question 4

Which dietary monosaccharide is most readily fermented by Streptococcus mutans to produce lactic acid?

Accepted Answer

Glucose

Answer

Glucose is the primary substrate for glycolysis in S. mutans, producing lactic acid that demineralizes enamel.

Question 5

A dental hygienist counseling a patient on caries prevention should recommend limiting intake of which type of food between meals?

Accepted Answer

Sticky fermentable carbohydrates

Answer

Sticky fermentable carbohydrates adhere to tooth surfaces and are slowly broken down, prolonging acid exposure and caries risk.

ADEX - Dental Hygiene Exam Practice Test