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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When IRM is supplied as a powder and liquid, what is the recommended mixing surface?

  1. A glass slab

  2. A treated paper pad

  3. A plastic mixing bowl

  4. A ceramic tile

The correct answer is: A treated paper pad

The recommended mixing surface for IRM (Intermediate Restorative Material) when supplied as a powder and liquid is a treated paper pad. This type of mixing surface is preferred because it provides a protective barrier against moisture and ensures that the material adheres correctly during the mixing process. Treated paper pads are designed to minimize any chemical interaction with the materials being mixed, allowing for accurate proportions and optimal consistency. Additionally, using a treated paper pad can facilitate easy cleanup after the mixing is completed, which is practical in a busy dental setting. Other surfaces, such as glass slabs or ceramic tiles, might not provide the same level of protection against moisture absorption or might not be as convenient for disposal afterward. A plastic mixing bowl, while useful for other substances, may not be ideal for IRM specifically due to the potential for the material to stick or not mix evenly. Thus, the treated paper pad is the optimal choice for this application.