National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Prior to which task is a topical anesthetic commonly applied to reduce discomfort?

1. Insurance verification

2. View x-ray results

3. Deep cleaning

4. Patient registration

The correct answer is: Deep cleaning

Topical anesthetic is commonly applied prior to deep cleaning procedures, often referred to as scaling and root planing. This procedure involves the removal of plaque and calculus from below the gum line, which can be uncomfortable for patients. By applying a topical anesthetic, the dental professional can minimize discomfort, making the experience more tolerable for the patient. This preparation contributes to a smoother and more effective treatment environment, allowing the dental team to perform necessary cleaning without causing undue pain. In contrast, tasks such as insurance verification, viewing x-ray results, and patient registration do not involve direct manipulation of the soft tissues in the mouth and do not typically require anesthetic to alleviate discomfort. These are administrative or observational tasks that do not impact a patient’s physical experience in the same way that deep cleaning does.