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!

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What is the normal working time of normal-set alginate impression material?

  1. 1 minute

  2. 2 minutes

  3. 3 minutes

  4. 5 minutes

The correct answer is: 2 minutes

The normal working time for normal-set alginate impression material is approximately 2 minutes. This timeframe allows dental professionals to properly mix the alginate powder with water to a smooth consistency and then carry out the impression procedure before the material begins to set. The 2-minute working time is crucial for ensuring that the alginate can be applied effectively to the dental structures, capturing the necessary details without the risk of the material setting too soon. In clinical practice, this timing ensures that dental assistants and dentists can perform the impression in an effective manner, maintaining accuracy and detail in the final result. Being aware of this working time is essential for achieving high-quality impressions in dental procedures.