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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Which instrument is used to remove subgingival calculus?

Scaler
Curette
Explorer
Ultrasonic cleaner

The correct answer is: Curette

The curette is specifically designed for the removal of subgingival calculus, which is the calculus located below the gumline. Its shape allows it to access the deeper areas of the periodontal pockets, making it effective for scaling and root planing procedures. The curved blade of the curette is ideal for adapting to the contours of the tooth roots and effectively removing deposits without damaging the surrounding gingival tissue. This precision is essential for maintaining periodontal health and promoting healing in patients with gum disease. The scaler, while also used for calculus removal, is more suited for supragingival calculus, or calculus located above the gumline, and is not designed to access the subgingival areas as effectively as the curette. The explorer is primarily used for detecting caries and assessing tooth surface conditions rather than for calculus removal. An ultrasonic cleaner is a tool that uses high-frequency vibrations to dislodge calculus but is not an instrument used directly by the clinician to remove subgingival deposits.