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 of the following is NOT a method of administration for topical anesthetics?

Ointments
Sprays
Gels
Tablets

The correct answer is: Tablets

Topical anesthetics are used to numb specific areas of the body, particularly in dental procedures, to alleviate pain. Common forms of topical anesthetics include ointments, sprays, and gels, as these forms can be easily applied to the skin or mucosal surfaces where local numbness is required. Ointments are often used because they adhere well to the surface and provide prolonged contact with the mucosa, allowing for effective anesthetic delivery. Sprays are typically used for quick application over larger areas, providing rapid onset of numbing effects. Gels combine the benefits of ointments and sprays, offering a thick consistency that stays in place while also being easy to apply. In contrast, tablets are not a method of administration for topical anesthetics. While they can be used for systemic pain relief, they do not provide localized anesthesia and are swallowed rather than applied topically. This makes tablets an inappropriate choice for this question.