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!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What do the proximal surfaces of the teeth refer to?

  1. Surfaces that are visible when smiling

  2. Surfaces at the occlusal edge

  3. Surfaces next to an adjacent tooth

  4. Surfaces on the facial aspect

The correct answer is: Surfaces next to an adjacent tooth

The proximal surfaces of the teeth refer to the areas that are in contact with adjacent teeth. These surfaces, which include the mesial and distal surfaces, play a crucial role in dental anatomy and health, as they can influence plaque accumulation and the potential for cavities between teeth, areas that are often harder to keep clean with regular brushing alone. The design allows for a smoother contact point between teeth, contributing to overall dental alignment and stability within the dental arch. Understanding proximal surfaces is essential for dental professionals when considering procedures such as restorations, orthodontics, or preventive care aimed at maintaining the health of interproximal areas.