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 is one of the primary functions of low strength bases in dental procedures?

To enhance the appearance of a restoration
To provide a therapeutic benefit to the tooth
To reduce tooth sensitivity during procedures
To improve the adhesion of dental materials

The correct answer is: To provide a therapeutic benefit to the tooth

Low strength bases serve primarily to provide a therapeutic benefit to the tooth, particularly when they are used under restorative materials. These materials typically consist of calcium hydroxide or glass ionomer, which not only act as a barrier to protect the pulp from thermal shock and chemical irritation but also promote the healing of the pulp tissue. Low strength bases can stimulate the formation of secondary dentin, which can help in the natural defense and repair processes of the tooth. This protective aspect is crucial, especially in deep cavity preparations where close proximity to the pulp can pose a risk for pulpitis or other dental issues. While additional functions like reducing tooth sensitivity or improving adhesion can be relevant in context, the essence of using low strength bases fundamentally lies in their capacity to aid in the biological health of the tooth structure.