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 purpose of liners, bases, and varnishes in dentistry?

To seal cavities
To replace lost dentin
To enhance tooth color
To act as a temporary fill

The correct answer is: To replace lost dentin

The primary purpose of liners, bases, and varnishes in dentistry is to protect the pulp in a tooth after a cavity has been prepared for restoration. Liners are typically used in very thin layers to provide a barrier against chemical irritation from restoratives and to support the pulp. Bases, being thicker materials, offer thermal insulation and further protect pulpal tissues, especially in cases where the cavity has approached or invaded the dentin layer. Varnishes are applied to seal the dentin and reduce sensitivity. While these materials do provide some level of sealing, their main function revolves around safeguarding the underlying tooth structure and pulp rather than replacing lost dentin or enhancing tooth color. Temporary fillings, on the other hand, serve a distinct purpose and do not primarily relate to the protective functions offered by liners, bases, and varnishes.