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.
Q11Given the details below, what should the dental hygienist advise the patient to do to minimize the risk of enamel demineralization and white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment? Case Details Patient Information Age 16 Sex F Height 5'7" Weight 145 Blood Pressure 111/76 Chief Complaint Unhappy with the appearance of teeth; preparing for braces Medical History Asthma (last attack 8 months ago) Current Medications Albuterol prn Dental History Last visit 2 years ago; decay on #29 (DO) Social History High school student; trumpet player
✓ Correct answer: B. Increase fluoride use by using a fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse
The application of fluoride is critical in preventing demineralization during orthodontic treatment. Fluoride strengthens enamel and can help prevent enamel breakdown which leads to white spot lesions. Regular brushing and using fluoride products are effective measures.
Q12A new dental device is recommended for patients who have difficulty with thumb sucking, similar to how custom mouth guards are personalized for comfort and fit. Which type of device should be recommended for the best fit, according to the details?
✓ Correct answer: A. Custom-made dental appliance
A custom-made dental appliance is designed to fit an individual's mouth perfectly, offering maximum comfort and effectiveness. This is similar to custom mouth guards, which are tailored to fit snugly against the teeth.
Q13The patient reports that he struggles to floss because his floss often shreds between his teeth. Which of the following is NOT an area of education that the dental hygienist should address? Patient Details Age 15 Sex F Height 5'3" Weight 105 lbs B/P 110/70 Chief Complaint The patient experiences bleeding gums while flossing. Medical History No known allergies Current Medications N/A Dental History The patient wears braces. Social History The patient is a sophomore in high school and is active in the drama club.
✓ Correct answer: D. Selecting the appropriate flavor of dental floss
The appropriate flavor of dental floss is not applicable. The patient should be educated on using waxed floss to reduce shredding and the proper technique to prevent gum damage. A water flosser could be recommended for easier cleaning with braces.
Q14Based on the details provided, which deciduous tooth is likely retained longer than usual or possibly missing due to congenital reasons?
✓ Correct answer: C. K
The tooth 'K' represents a primary molar that could be retained due to the absence of a permanent successor.
Q15When preparing an anesthetic cartridge for a 9-year-old patient, what is the maximum volume of anesthetic solution that should be administered per injection? Patient Details Age Weight Medical Notes 9 85 lbs Patient is using Claritin 5mg qd for year-round allergies
✓ Correct answer: B. 1.8ml
A single dental cartridge typically contains 1.8ml of anesthetic solution. The maximum safe dose for a child depends on the anesthetic used, but it is typically one cartridge per injection site for children.
Q16Based on the details, the patient requires a fluoride application but has metal-based dental restorations. Which type of fluoride should be avoided due to its potential to corrode these restorations?
✓ Correct answer: A. Stannous
Stannous fluoride should be avoided with metal-based dental restorations because it can cause corrosion due to its tin component. Neutral sodium fluoride and fluoride varnish are safer alternatives for patients with metal restorations.
Q17The patient's father expresses concern over his son's year-round allergies. Microorganisms in which area of the mouth are most likely to exacerbate oral symptoms related to these allergies? Refer to the details for additional context.
✓ Correct answer: D. Tongue
Microorganisms residing on the tongue can significantly influence oral symptoms, especially in the presence of allergies. The tongue harbors bacteria that may contribute to malodor and irritation, which are often aggravated by allergies. Proper tongue hygiene can help minimize these symptoms.
Q18The details indicate the patient experiences difficulty with teeth alignment. What oral habit might be contributing to these dental issues?
✓ Correct answer: C. Tongue thrusting
Mouth breathing combined with tongue thrusting can lead to misalignment of the teeth and dental arch issues.
Q19Based on the details provided, which device is suitable for managing plaque on the surfaces of the teeth?
✓ Correct answer: B. All of the above
All of the above options are effective for plaque removal on tooth surfaces. Each device plays a role in maintaining oral hygiene and reducing cavity risk.
Q20A young patient presents with a small, 3mm, round, red lesion on the inner lining of the cheek. Based on the details, what is this lesion most likely to be?
✓ Correct answer: A. hemangioma
Hemangiomas are regions of increased blood vessel growth and can present as red lesions due to the concentration of blood vessels. They are often benign and can occur as a congenital feature or due to minor trauma.
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Theory