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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In which of the following situations may sedatives be used in a dental office?

  1. For a confident patient only

  2. For a very nervous patient

  3. Only for surgical procedures

  4. For patients above 18 years only

The correct answer is: For a very nervous patient

Sedatives are often used in a dental office to help manage anxiety and discomfort, particularly for patients who experience a high level of nervousness or dental anxiety. In this context, it is important to address the needs of very nervous patients, as sedatives can assist in creating a more comfortable environment, thereby enabling the dental provider to perform necessary procedures effectively. The use of sedatives must be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as the patient's level of anxiety, their medical history, and the type of dental procedure being performed. While sedatives may be beneficial for nervous patients, their use is not restricted solely to surgical procedures or limited to patients of a certain age. Therefore, the option that sedatives can be used specifically for very nervous patients accurately reflects the clinical practice in dentistry, emphasizing the importance of patient comfort and relaxation during dental treatments.