NBDHE Dental Hygiene Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q1The patient mentions feeling a rough surface on the occlusal aspect of her molar teeth. Which teeth are most likely to have a natural central groove? Please refer to the "details" for more context.
✓ Correct answer: D. Permanent molars
Permanent molars typically have a central groove running mesiodistally across the occlusal table, which assists in efficient chewing and grinding of food.
Q2Based on the clinical details provided, what is the likely class of cavity found on tooth #14 according to Black's classification?
✓ Correct answer: C. II
Class II caries are found on the proximal surfaces of premolars and molars and are often associated with areas adjacent to the contact points. This type of decay is not found on the incisors or canines, positioning them distinctly within Black's classification system.
Q3Given the following details, which vitamin is crucial for the patient's gum health during her orthodontic treatment? Attribute Details Age 16 Sex F Height 5'7" Weight 145 B/P 111/76 Chief Complaint "I'm unhappy with the way my teeth look. I am about to get braces. My orthodontist told me to have my teeth cleaned and cavities filled before he will put the braces on my teeth." Medical History The patient has asthma. Her last attack was 8 months ago. Current Medications Albuterol prn Dental History The patient has not been seen for 2 years. At her last appointment her teeth were cleaned and decay was diagnosed as a small DO on #29. Social History The patient is a student at the local high school. She plays trumpet in the school band.
✓ Correct answer: B. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for the health of gums, especially in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, as it helps maintain the integrity of connective tissues and prevents gum disease.
Q4During a dental examination, the clinician notices a unique ridge called the 'cervical ridge' on a tooth. Which tooth would this most likely be on? Refer to the details for any needed information.
✓ Correct answer: A. Maxillary central incisor
The cervical ridge is a significant enamel ridge seen on the facial surface of the maxillary central incisor, located near the cervical area, which is its identity.
Q5After using her fluoride mouth rinse, what should the patient be advised to do according to the details?
✓ Correct answer: D. Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes
Avoiding food and drink for 30 minutes after using a fluoride mouth rinse allows the fluoride to remain in contact with the teeth for a longer duration, enhancing its effectiveness in preventing dental caries.
Q6The patient exhibits a white spot lesion on several upper anterior teeth, indicating early demineralization. Which fluoride application method would be most appropriate to reverse this condition? Refer to the details for relevant patient information.
✓ Correct answer: C. Topical fluoride varnish
Topical fluoride varnish is the most effective method to treat early demineralization by promoting remineralization of enamel. Other methods, like systemic supplements, do not have a direct impact on surface-level lesions.
Q7Refer to the details to determine which of the patient's teeth appear to have signs of occlusal decay that were not treated properly.
✓ Correct answer: B. 29
Tooth #29 was diagnosed with decay on the disto-occlusal (DO) surface during the patient's last dental appointment, two years ago. Given the passage of time without treatment, this tooth is the most likely to have untreated occlusal decay.
Q8The patient mentions avoiding flossing because it causes her gums to bleed. What is the most probable reason for this?
✓ Correct answer: A. Gingival inflammation
Bleeding gums during flossing are usually due to gingival inflammation, which results from plaque accumulation and inadequate oral hygiene. Educating the patient on proper flossing techniques can help reduce gum bleeding and inflammation.
Q9During a dental examination, the patient presents a cobblestone appearance on the oral mucosa. This characteristic feature is typically associated with which condition? Refer to the details for additional information.
✓ Correct answer: D. Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease can exhibit oral manifestations that include a cobblestone appearance of the mucosa. It is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract.
Q10Based on the details provided, which of the following appearances of gum tissue should indicate periodontal health in the patient's mouth?
✓ Correct answer: C. Coral/pink
Healthy gums are typically coral pink in color. They are firm, pointed in contour, and have smooth margins without signs of redness, puffiness, or recession.
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Theory