RDA Dental Specialties Assisting (Orthodontics, Periodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, and Prosthodontics)

Question 1

During an orthodontic appointment, a dental assistant uses a scaler to remove excess bonding material around a newly placed bracket. This instrument technique is called:

Accepted Answer

Flash removal

Answer

Coronal polishing

Answer

Band seating

Answer

Torquing

Question 2

In periodontal surgery, a periosteal elevator is used to:

Accepted Answer

Reflect and retract the mucoperiosteal flap away from the bone

Answer

Remove calculus from the root surface

Answer

Place sutures after surgery

Answer

Measure pocket depth around each tooth

Question 3

Which instrument is used during a tooth extraction to loosen the periodontal ligament fibers and expand the alveolar socket before forceps are applied?

Accepted Answer

Elevator

Answer

Curette

Answer

Rongeur

Answer

Periosteal elevator

Question 4

During root canal therapy, a rubber dam is placed primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Isolate the field and prevent contamination of the canal with oral bacteria

Answer

Improve patient comfort by keeping the mouth open

Answer

Retract the cheek for better operator visibility

Answer

Reduce the amount of anesthetic needed

Question 5

A final impression for a full-coverage crown is most commonly taken using a:

Accepted Answer

Polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) in a custom or triple tray

Answer

Alginate (irreversible hydrocolloid) in a stock tray

Answer

Zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) impression paste

Answer

Plaster of Paris in a full-arch tray

Question 6

After a tooth extraction, the patient is instructed to bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes. The primary reason for this instruction is to:

Accepted Answer

Apply direct pressure to promote clot formation and hemostasis

Answer

Prevent the tongue from touching the socket

Answer

Keep the socket moist so the bone does not dry out

Answer

Reduce postoperative swelling