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!

Practice this question and more.

What is the primary function of a dental liner?

To provide aesthetic appeal
To protect the pulp
To enhance the strength of the tooth
To act as a filler material

The correct answer is: To protect the pulp

The primary function of a dental liner is to protect the pulp. Dental liners are typically placed in cavity preparations before restorative materials are applied, serving as a barrier against thermal, chemical, and mechanical stimuli. They are particularly crucial when the preparation is very close to the pulp, as they help prevent irritation and potential pulp damage. This protective layer can minimize the risk of pulpitis, which is inflammation of the pulp, thus ensuring the longevity and health of the tooth after restorative procedures. In contrast, while aesthetic appeal, enhancement of strength, and acting as a filler material are important considerations in dental restorations, they do not represent the primary function of a liner. Liners are specifically designed for pulp protection, rather than for cosmetic purposes or to provide structural support to the tooth.