National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the three factors necessary for the formation of dental caries?

1. Susceptible tooth

2. Diet rich in fermentable carbohydrates

3. Regular dental check-ups

4. Specific bacteria

The correct answer is: Regular dental check-ups

The formation of dental caries requires three primary factors: a susceptible tooth, specific bacteria, and a diet rich in fermentable carbohydrates. The teeth must be vulnerable to decay for caries to form, appropriate bacteria must be present to metabolize these carbohydrates into acids that harm the tooth structure, and a diet high in sugars and starches provides the fuel for this process. However, regular dental check-ups, while crucial for maintaining oral health and catching potential problems early, are not a direct factor in the creation of dental caries. Instead, they serve more as a preventive measure to help manage dental health and treat any issues before they develop into more serious problems. Regular check-ups do not contribute to the biochemical environment required for caries formation, making them distinct from the other three components that directly interact in the caries process.