RDA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield RDA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which type of glove is NOT acceptable for use during patient examination and treatment procedures in dentistry? → Household utility gloves used for patient care
2. A patient with epilepsy has a tonic-clonic seizure in the chair. Which action is CONTRAINDICATED during the seizure? → Placing a bite block or tongue depressor between the teeth
3. Which statement best describes the concept of direct supervision in dental assisting? → The dentist is physically present in the facility and authorizes each procedure performed
4. Overlapping of the interproximal contacts on a bitewing radiograph is a common error caused by: → Incorrect horizontal angulation
5. In a dental office, RDAs typically work closely with which of the following professionals? → Dentists and dental hygienists
6. What type of radiograph is used to examine the floor of the mouth, calculi in salivary glands, or impacted teeth? → Occlusal radiograph
7. Which cement is most appropriate for the final cementation of a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown on a vital tooth? → Resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) cement
8. According to the Spaulding Classification system, which of the following is considered a semi-critical instrument? → Amalgam condenser
9. To minimize musculoskeletal strain, an RDA should position the patient so that: → The operative field is at the operator's elbow height
10. How should an RDA handle a patient who is nervous about a procedure? → Explain the procedure calmly and provide reassurance
11. The State Dental Board has the authority to take which action against a dental assistant who violates the Dental Practice Act? → Suspend or revoke the assistant's license or certificate
12. Using the Universal Numbering System, what number is assigned to the maxillary left central incisor? → #9
13. Which of the following actions would be considered a violation of HIPAA and a breach of patient confidentiality? → Discussing a patient's treatment in the office reception area
14. A dental assistant notices the sterilization pouch seal has partially opened after the cycle. What is the correct action? → Repackage and re-sterilize the instruments
15. If a patient experiences a grand mal seizure in the dental chair, the primary responsibility of the dental team is to: → Prevent the patient from injury and clear the area
16. What is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR according to the AHA? → 30:2
17. A patient loses consciousness during a procedure. After activating EMS, the patient has a pulse but is not breathing normally. The dental team should: → Deliver rescue breaths at 1 breath every 5-6 seconds
18. A child patient refuses to open their mouth for an examination. Which approach reflects the BEST use of behavior management skills? → Use tell-show-do technique and speak calmly at the child's level
19. The term 'trifurcation' is most applicable to which tooth? → Maxillary first molar
20. Which of the following BEST describes good ergonomic practices for an RDA during long procedures? → Maintaining neutral posture, adjusting chair height, and taking micro-breaks when possible
21. A patient's oxygen saturation (SpO2) drops to 91% during moderate sedation. What is the first action the dental team should take? → Increase the oxygen flow rate
22. Regarding dental unit waterlines, what is the recommended colony-forming unit (CFU) standard for dental treatment water? → Less than 500 CFU/mL (CDC-recommended standard for dental water)
23. Which local anesthetic agent is classified as an amide and is the most commonly used in dentistry? → Lidocaine
24. What is one of the RDA’s key roles in maintaining a sterile environment in the dental office? → Sterilizing dental instruments and equipment
25. Why is compassion an important trait for a Registered Dental Assistant? → It improves communication with patients and relieves their anxiety
26. Which behavior BEST demonstrates professionalism when a coworker makes a clinical error that affects patient care? → Correct the error using appropriate channels and report it according to office protocol
27. What is the RDA's role when a patient has a latex allergy and requires dental treatment? → Ensure all latex-containing products are removed from the operatory before treatment
28. Which intraoral injection technique deposits anesthetic near the mental foramen to anesthetize mandibular premolars? → Mental nerve block
29. The non-functional, fifth cusp often found on the mesiolingual surface of a permanent maxillary first molar is called the: → Cusp of Carabelli
30. Which of the following is the MOST important attribute for maintaining patient confidentiality in a dental office? → Sharing information only with those directly involved in the patient's care