National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

What appearance does etched enamel have?

1. Shiny

2. Frosty

3. Dull

4. Transparent

The correct answer is: Frosty

Etched enamel has a frosty appearance due to the microscopic changes that occur on its surface during the etching process. Etching typically involves the application of an acid, which removes a small amount of enamel and creates irregularities in the surface texture. This process enhances the surface area and creates a matte look, often described as frosty. The frosty appearance is crucial in dental procedures, particularly when bonding materials like composite resins, as it helps improve the mechanical retention of the bonding agent to the enamel surface. Other appearances, such as shiny, dull, or transparent, do not accurately describe etched enamel. A shiny appearance typically indicates an unetched or polished surface. Dull may refer to a lack of shine but does not encapsulate the unique textural change produced by etching. Transparent can imply a lack of significant surface alteration, which is not the case with etched enamel, as the etching process alters the enamel's opalescence and light reflection properties.