Dental instrument identification, infection control, and chairside assistance basics tested on dental assisting certification exams.
39 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is a mouth mirror used for in operative dentistry?
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To provide indirect vision and retraction of the lips and cheeks
- What is a dental explorer?
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A sharp instrument used to detect calculus, decay, and surface irregularities on teeth
- What is a scaler used for?
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Removal of calculus and plaque from tooth surfaces
- What is the primary difference between high-speed and low-speed handpieces?
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High-speed is used for cutting and removing tooth structure; low-speed is used for polishing and finishing
- What does a burnisher do?
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Polishes and smooths restorative materials and tooth surfaces
- What is the purpose of a dental shade guide?
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To select the correct color match for restorative materials
- What are the two main types of suction evacuation?
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High-volume evacuation and low-volume evacuation
- What is an amalgam condenser?
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An instrument used to pack and condense amalgam restorative material into a prepared tooth
- What is the purpose of a polishing bur?
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To polish and smooth tooth surfaces and restorations
- What instrument is used for gum retraction during impressions?
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Retraction cord or retraction paste
- What does standard precautions in dentistry include?
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Treating all blood and body fluids as potentially infectious
- What personal protective equipment is required for dental assistants?
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Gloves, face mask, protective eyewear, and protective gown or apron
- When must hands be washed during patient care?
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Before donning gloves, after removing gloves, and between patient appointments
- How should sharp instruments be disposed of?
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In a rigid sharps container that is sealed and labeled when full
- What is the recommended sterilization method for dental instruments?
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Autoclave (steam sterilization) at 121 degrees Celsius for 15-30 minutes