National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the National Dental Assisting Exam with comprehensive quiz questions, including multiple choice and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

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How long can a short-acting local anesthetic agent last?

30 - 90 minutes
60 - 120 minutes
60 - 180 minutes
120 - 240 minutes

The correct answer is: 60 - 180 minutes

Short-acting local anesthetic agents typically have a duration of action ranging from approximately 30 to 90 minutes. This makes the correct range — between 30 and 90 minutes — ideally suited for procedures that do not require prolonged anesthesia. Short-acting agents, such as lidocaine, allow for effective pain control during dental procedures while minimizing the time patients experience numbness post-procedure, which can be beneficial in terms of patient comfort and functionality as the anesthetic effect wanes relatively quickly. While the other options suggest longer durations, these fall outside the typical characteristics of short-acting anesthetics, aligning with long-acting or intermediate-acting agents instead. By understanding the durations of various local anesthetics, dental assistants can make informed decisions regarding patient care and management during dental procedures.