National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

What is the typical composition of a dental liner used in treatment?

1. Calcium hydroxide

2. Glass ionomer

3. Composite material

4. Resin cement

The correct answer is: Calcium hydroxide

The typical composition of a dental liner is calcium hydroxide. This material is widely used in dentistry because of its properties that promote healing and protect the pulp of the tooth. Calcium hydroxide liners serve several critical functions, such as maintaining the health of the dental pulp, acting as a barrier between the dental restoration and the pulp chamber, and stimulating the formation of reparative dentin when the pulp is exposed. Calcium hydroxide has alkaline properties, which help to neutralize acids that may irritate the dental pulp, thus providing a safer environment for the tooth's vitality. Additionally, its ability to promote healing and dentin regeneration supports its widespread use in various dental procedures, especially in the management of cavities that involve pulp exposure. Other materials mentioned, such as glass ionomer, composite material, and resin cement, serve different purposes in dentistry. While glass ionomer can also provide some protective effects and has bonding properties, it is typically used for different indications like restorations and cavity lining in less critical situations. Composite materials are primarily used for fillings and restorations, and resin cement is utilized to bond indirect restorations but does not serve the specific function of a liner. Thus, calcium hydroxide is the most suitable choice for a dental liner due to