National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

The first step in preparing the patient for an in-office bleaching procedure is to:

1. Take X-rays of the teeth

2. Apply protective gel

3. Take shade of patients teeth

4. Clean the teeth

The correct answer is: Take shade of patients teeth

Before an in-office bleaching procedure, it is vital to assess the current shade of the patient's teeth. This step is crucial because it provides a baseline from which to measure the effectiveness of the whitening treatment. By determining the initial shade, dental professionals can communicate expected outcomes with the patient, setting realistic expectations for the results post-treatment. Additionally, this shade assessment allows for a tailored approach, ensuring that the whitening process is suitable and safe for the specific dental conditions present in the patient's mouth. Taking X-rays, while important in many dental procedures, is not a standard initial step specifically for whitening. Protective gel is typically applied after assessing the shade to prevent gum irritation. Cleaning the teeth may also be a necessary preparatory measure, but it generally occurs after the shade assessment, which is crucial for initiating the treatment process.