VTNE VTNE Dentistry and Oral Health 2

Question 1

Why is dental polishing performed after ultrasonic scaling in veterinary dental procedures?

Accepted Answer

To smooth enamel micro-scratches and reduce plaque adhesion

Answer

Polishing smooths the micro-scratches left by scaling instruments, creating a surface less hospitable to bacterial plaque adhesion.

Question 2

What is the term for an abnormal tooth position or bite relationship in veterinary patients?

Accepted Answer

Malocclusion

Answer

Malocclusion refers to any abnormal alignment or occlusal relationship between the upper and lower dental arcades.

Question 3

What is the normal gingival sulcus depth in a healthy cat?

Accepted Answer

1–3 mm

Answer

In cats, a normal gingival sulcus depth is 0–1 mm; depths greater than 1 mm suggest periodontal pocketing.

Question 4

During a veterinary dental procedure, which anesthetic monitoring parameter is especially important to watch due to the risk of bradycardia?

Accepted Answer

Heart rate and rhythm

Answer

Dental procedures can stimulate the trigeminal nerve causing vagally mediated bradycardia, making heart rate monitoring critical throughout.

Question 5

Which tooth surface in veterinary dentistry faces the tongue or hard palate?

Accepted Answer

Lingual/palatal

Answer

The lingual surface faces the tongue on mandibular teeth, while the palatal surface faces the hard palate on maxillary teeth.

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test