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Question 1Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A maxillary central incisor has a fracture extending 1.5 mm into the palatal dentin without pulp exposure. Radiographs show no root involvement. Which restorative approach is most appropriate?
- Full-coverage porcelain crown
- Root canal treatment followed by a post and core
- Direct composite resin restoration after enamel beveling Correct answer.
- Extraction and implant placement
Explanation
Anterior crown fractures confined to enamel and dentin without pulpal exposure are managed conservatively with a direct composite restoration, which preserves tooth structure and gives an immediate esthetic result. A bevel on the surrounding enamel improves the bonding interface and blends the resin margin.
Question 2Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which pulp diagnosis is most consistent with a tooth that responds to cold testing with a sharp, lingering pain lasting 30 seconds after stimulus removal, with no periapical radiolucency?
- Normal pulp
- Reversible pulpitis
- Symptomatic irreversible pulpitis Correct answer.
- Pulpal necrosis
Explanation
A sharp response to thermal stimulation that lingers well beyond removal of the stimulus indicates symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. The absence of periapical change places the inflammation within the pulp rather than in the periapical tissues.
Question 3Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
What is the primary purpose of using a rubber dam during root canal treatment?
- To improve access to the canal orifices
- To reduce the working length measurement error
- To accelerate the setting of the sealer
- To isolate the field and prevent ingestion of instruments and irrigants Correct answer.
Explanation
The rubber dam provides a clean, dry, isolated operative field and protects the patient from swallowing or aspirating instruments, irrigants such as sodium hypochlorite, and debris. It also improves visibility and maintains asepsis during treatment.
Question 4Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which irrigant is most commonly used for its antimicrobial and tissue-dissolving properties during chemomechanical preparation of the root canal system?
- Sodium hypochlorite Correct answer.
- Normal saline
- Hydrogen peroxide 3%
- Chlorhexidine gluconate 2%
Explanation
Sodium hypochlorite is the primary endodontic irrigant because it dissolves necrotic tissue and is broadly antimicrobial against bacteria and biofilm. Its concentration and delivery are balanced against tissue toxicity.
Question 5Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A Class II cavity preparation in a posterior tooth requires extension into the occlusal surface. Which feature is essential to prevent fracture of the marginal ridge and to protect the remaining cusps?
- Removal of all enamel at the gingival margin
- Adequate remaining cuspal thickness and a cavosurface bevel on enamel Correct answer.
- A rounded pulpal floor
- A knife-edge finish line
Explanation
Preserving sufficient cuspal thickness and beveling the enamel margins improves the strength and seal of the restoration. If the cusp is undermined, cuspal coverage should be considered.
Question 6Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
During access preparation for a mandibular first molar, the clinician identifies three canals. Which additional canal is most likely to be missed and should be actively sought?
- The middle mesial canal
- The second distobuccal canal
- The second mesiobuccal canal
- The distolingual canal Correct answer.
Explanation
Mandibular first molars frequently have a fourth canal, the distolingual canal, in addition to the mesiobuccal, mesiolingual, and distal canals. Failure to locate and treat it can lead to persistent infection and failure.
Question 7Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which factor most strongly predicts the success of a direct composite veneer on a discolored maxillary anterior tooth?
- The quality of enamel bonding and adequate remaining enamel Correct answer.
- The shade of the underlying dentin
- The use of a light-cured versus dual-cured cement
- The thickness of the composite layer
Explanation
Direct composite bonding relies on a reliable etch-and-bond interface with enamel, so adequate enamel quantity and quality are critical for retention and marginal seal. Discoloration and shade are managed after sound bonding is established.
Question 8Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A patient presents with a buccal pit restoration in a mandibular molar that has recurrent caries at the gingival margin. Which preparation consideration is most important for the new restoration?
- Extending the cavity to include the occlusal fissure
- Using a glass ionomer without conditioning the dentin
- Removing all undermined enamel and establishing a clean, sound cavosurface margin Correct answer.
- Placing the restoration without a matrix
Explanation
Recurrent caries requires complete removal of infected dentin and unsupported enamel, followed by a sound cavosurface margin to seal the new restoration. Failure to establish a clean margin predisposes to further leakage and caries.
Question 9Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which statement best describes the role of the smear layer in endodontic treatment?
- It has no effect on the outcome of root canal therapy
- It can harbor bacteria and should be removed to allow irrigants and sealer to access tubules Correct answer.
- It enhances sealer penetration into dentinal tubules
- It prevents irrigant penetration and should always be left intact
Explanation
The smear layer created during instrumentation contains organic and inorganic debris and can harbor bacteria. Removing it with chelating agents and sodium hypochlorite improves disinfection and sealer adaptation.
Question 10Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which radiographic finding is most suggestive of a vertical root fracture in an endodontically treated tooth?
- Diffuse widening of the periodontal ligament space at the apex only
- A halo-like radiolucency along the lateral root surface Correct answer.
- A radiopaque filling material in the coronal pulp chamber
- A well-defined periapical radiolucency centered at the apex
Explanation
Vertical root fractures often produce a lateral, halo-shaped radiolucency along the root surface because the fracture communicates with the periodontium. This differs from the apical radiolucency typical of pulpal or periapical pathosis.
Question 11Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which property of amalgam makes it suitable for large posterior restorations but also contributes to its potential for marginal breakdown?
- Low creep resistance
- High coefficient of thermal expansion
- Low thermal conductivity
- High compressive strength with low tensile strength Correct answer.
Explanation
Amalgam has high compressive strength but relatively low tensile and edge strength, which can lead to marginal ditching and fracture under occlusal loading. Careful preparation design and adequate bulk are needed to compensate.
Question 12Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A patient reports sharp pain on biting that resolves immediately after pressure is released from a recently placed composite restoration. Which cause is most likely?
- Cracked tooth syndrome
- A periapical abscess
- Pulpal necrosis
- Occlusal hyperocclusion of the restoration Correct answer.
Explanation
Pain on biting that disappears immediately when pressure is released is characteristic of occlusal trauma from a high restoration. Adjusting the occlusion usually resolves the symptom without further treatment.
Question 13Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which factor is most important in determining the prognosis of a tooth with a crown-root fracture involving the biologic width?
- The type of local anesthetic used
- The extent of the fracture relative to the alveolar crest and restorability Correct answer.
- The shade of the final restoration
- The patient's age alone
Explanation
The prognosis of a crown-root fracture depends on how far the fracture extends subgingivally relative to the alveolar bone crest and whether the tooth can be restored with a stable ferrule. Crown lengthening or extraction may be required.
Question 14Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which technique is recommended to reduce the risk of sodium hypochlorite extrusion beyond the apical foramen?
- Irrigating without a rubber dam
- Increasing irrigation pressure to improve penetration
- Using a large-bore needle wedged into the canal
- Delivering irrigant with a side-vented needle placed short of the working length Correct answer.
Explanation
A side-vented needle positioned short of the working length allows irrigant to flow laterally while limiting apical extrusion. This reduces the risk of a sodium hypochlorite accident and tissue damage.
Question 15Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which of the following best explains why a glass ionomer restoration may be preferred in a patient with a high caries risk and a cervical lesion?
- It has the highest fracture toughness among restorative materials
- It requires no isolation from moisture
- It is the most esthetic material available
- It provides fluoride release and chemical adhesion to tooth structure Correct answer.
Explanation
Glass ionomer cements release fluoride and bond chemically to enamel and dentin, which can be advantageous in high caries risk patients and cervical lesions. These properties help protect adjacent tooth structure.
Question 16Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which is the most appropriate management for a tooth with a necrotic pulp and an asymptomatic apical periodontitis lesion?
- Pulpotomy
- Extraction and immediate implant placement
- Non-surgical root canal treatment Correct answer.
- Observation without treatment
Explanation
A necrotic pulp with apical periodontitis requires non-surgical root canal treatment to remove the infected tissue and allow periapical healing. Observation would allow progression of infection.
Question 17Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which feature distinguishes a Class III cavity preparation from a Class IV preparation?
- Class III involves the proximal surface without the incisal angle, while Class IV involves the incisal angle Correct answer.
- Class III involves the occlusal surface only
- Class III always requires a crown
- Class IV is confined to the gingival third of the facial surface
Explanation
Class III preparations involve proximal surfaces of anterior teeth without involving the incisal angle, whereas Class IV preparations include the incisal angle. This distinction affects the restorative approach and esthetic demands.
Question 18Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which statement about the use of a post in an endodontically treated tooth is correct?
- A post should always extend to the apical foramen
- A post replaces the need for a coronal seal
- A post is used to retain a core when there is insufficient coronal tooth structure Correct answer.
- A post strengthens the root and prevents fracture
Explanation
Posts are placed to retain a core buildup when coronal tooth structure is inadequate; they do not strengthen the root. Preservation of sound dentin and an adequate ferrule are more important for fracture resistance.
Question 19Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which is the most appropriate immediate management for an avulsed permanent maxillary central incisor that has been out of the socket for 30 minutes and stored in milk?
- Soak the tooth in sodium hypochlorite before replantation
- Replant the tooth after gentle rinsing and splint it Correct answer.
- Place the tooth in the socket without splinting
- Discard the tooth and plan an implant
Explanation
An avulsed permanent tooth should be replanted as soon as possible after gentle cleansing and stabilized with a flexible splint. Milk is an appropriate transport medium that preserves periodontal ligament cell viability.
Question 20Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which factor is most critical for the long-term success of a fiber post used to restore an endodontically treated anterior tooth?
- The length of the post extending to the apex
- Adequate ferrule and preservation of coronal dentin Correct answer.
- The use of a metal crown
- The color of the post
Explanation
Adequate ferrule and retained coronal dentin distribute stresses and protect the tooth from fracture, which is more important than the post material itself. Posts that extend to the apex can weaken the root and are avoided.
Question 21Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which statement best explains the concept of the 'ferrule effect' in endodontically treated teeth?
- A circumferential band of dentin that resists fracture by distributing forces Correct answer.
- A method of obturation using warm gutta-percha
- A metal collar that seals the root canal
- A type of post that extends into the apical third
Explanation
The ferrule effect refers to a circumferential band of sound dentin that encircles the tooth structure and resists fracture by distributing occlusal forces. It is a major determinant of long-term success.
Question 22Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which of the following is the most important factor in preventing coronal microleakage after root canal treatment?
- The number of visits for treatment
- The type of gutta-percha used
- The size of the master apical file
- An adequate coronal seal Correct answer.
Explanation
An adequate coronal seal is critical because coronal microleakage is a major cause of endodontic failure. It should be established as soon as possible after treatment.
Question 23Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which is the most appropriate management for a tooth with a horizontal root fracture in the middle third and a vital pulp?
- Immediate root canal treatment of both fragments
- Repositioning of the coronal fragment and flexible splinting Correct answer.
- Placement of a post through the fracture line
- Extraction
Explanation
Middle-third horizontal root fractures with a vital pulp are managed by repositioning the coronal fragment and applying a flexible splint to allow healing. Root canal treatment is indicated only if the pulp becomes necrotic.
Question 24Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which of the following best describes the mechanism by which a bonded composite restoration can reduce postoperative sensitivity?
- It replaces the smear layer with a conductive layer
- It eliminates all polymerization shrinkage
- It increases thermal conductivity to the pulp
- It seals dentinal tubules and prevents fluid movement Correct answer.
Explanation
Postoperative sensitivity is often related to fluid movement within dentinal tubules. A well-sealed bonded restoration limits this movement and reduces sensitivity.
Question 25Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which of the following is a key advantage of using a rubber dam during adhesive restorative procedures?
- It increases the working time of the composite
- It reduces the need for anesthesia
- It eliminates the need for a matrix band
- It provides a dry field that improves bonding and reduces contamination Correct answer.
Explanation
A dry, isolated field prevents moisture contamination of the bonding interface, which is essential for reliable adhesion. It also improves visibility and protects the airway.
Question 26Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which instrumentation motion is most appropriate for a rotary nickel-titanium file used in a curved root canal to reduce the risk of torsional failure?
- Reciprocating motion with lateral pressure against the outer curve
- Pecking motion with heavy apical pressure to engage the canal walls
- Continuous rotation with light apical pressure and frequent recapitulation Correct answer.
- Rotation at maximum torque with intermittent apical advancement
Explanation
Rotary NiTi files are designed for continuous rotation with light, controlled apical advancement, allowing the flutes to cut without excessive engagement that raises torsional stress. Frequent recapitulation and irrigation clear debris and reduce binding, which is the main precursor to file separation in curved canals. Heavy pressure or lateral forcing increases the engaged mass of dentine and the torque load on the file.
Question 27Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A maxillary premolar has a mesio-occlusal cavity that involves the mesial marginal ridge but the buccal and lingual cusps remain supported by sound dentine. Which restoration approach is most appropriate?
- Amalgam with a retentive pin in the mesial pulp horn
- Direct composite with a sectional matrix and wedge to restore the proximal contour Correct answer.
- Indirect ceramic onlay covering both cusps
- Crown lengthening followed by a full-coverage crown
Explanation
When the remaining cusps are supported by sound dentine and the defect is moderate, a directly bonded composite is the most conservative option and preserves sound tooth structure. A sectional matrix with wedging re-establishes the proximal contour and contact. Cusp-covering indirect work is reserved for teeth with undermined or cracked cusps, and pins or crown lengthening add unnecessary risk here.
Question 28Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A patient reports lingering cold sensitivity and mild spontaneous pain in a mandibular molar. The tooth is tender to percussion, and a radiograph shows a widened periodontal ligament space at the apex with no periapical radiolucency. Which pulpal and periapical diagnosis best fits?
- Reversible pulpitis with normal apical tissues
- Symptomatic irreversible pulpitis with symptomatic apical periodontitis Correct answer.
- Asymptomatic irreversible pulpitis with asymptomatic apical periodontitis
- Pulpal necrosis with acute apical abscess
Explanation
Lingering thermal pain and spontaneous pain indicate irreversible pulpitis, and the presence of symptoms means it is symptomatic. Tenderness to percussion with a widened periodontal ligament space but without a distinct radiolucency fits symptomatic apical periodontitis. Reversible pulpitis resolves promptly after the stimulus, and an acute abscess would typically show swelling and a distinct periapical change.
Question 29Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Which statement best describes the rationale for using an immediate dentine sealing protocol after tooth preparation for an indirect restoration?
- Applying a separating medium to dentine prevents the impression material from tearing on removal
- Sealing freshly cut dentine with a bonding agent before impression reduces bacterial leakage and post-operative sensitivity during provisional wear Correct answer.
- Placing a thin layer of zinc oxide eugenol on dentine protects the pulp and improves bond strength
- Etching the entire preparation with phosphoric acid before impression improves the fit of the final restoration
Explanation
Immediate dentine sealing coats the freshly cut dentine with a dentine bonding agent before the impression is taken, sealing the dentinal tubules against bacterial contamination and fluid movement while the provisional is worn. The sealed layer is later cleaned and the restoration is cemented over it. This reduces sensitivity and protects the pulp during the provisional phase.
Question 30Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
A mandibular first molar has a large occlusal-mesial defect with a residual buccal wall of only 1.5 mm thickness above the alveolar crest and a history of a previous root canal treatment. Which consideration most strongly influences the decision between extraction with implant placement and restoration with a post-retained crown?
- The amount of sound circumferential dentine and the presence of a ferrule effect on the residual walls Correct answer.
- The shade match between the final crown and the adjacent natural teeth
- The patient's preference for a single-visit rather than multi-visit treatment
- The type of irrigation protocol used during the original root canal treatment
Explanation
The decision hinges on restorability, which depends on the quantity and quality of sound dentine remaining, particularly the presence of a circumferential ferrule of at least 1.5 to 2 mm. A thin residual wall above the crest compromises both fracture resistance and periodontal support, favoring extraction and implant placement. Shade, irrigation history, and visit number do not determine structural prognosis.
Question 31Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient requests a crown for a maxillary central incisor. Which finish line configuration provides the best combination of esthetics and a well-defined margin for a metal-ceramic restoration with a facial porcelain margin?
- Shoulder or deep chamfer of about 1.0 mm on the facial aspect Correct answer.
- Knife-edge margin with no reduction
- Feather-edge margin with 0.3 mm facial reduction
- Heavy chamfer with a 1.5 mm facial reduction
Explanation
A facial shoulder or deep chamfer of roughly 1.0 mm gives the laboratory defined space for porcelain and a clean margin, which supports esthetics and marginal adaptation. Knife-edge and feather-edge margins lack the bulk and definition needed for a porcelain facial margin and thin porcelain fractures.
Question 32Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
During try-in of a complete maxillary denture, the border molding appears adequate but the denture dislodges when the patient opens wide. Which factor should be evaluated first?
- The occlusal vertical dimension
- The labial frenum notch depth
- The shade of the denture teeth
- The posterior palatal seal and border extension in the hamular notch region Correct answer.
Explanation
Dislodgement on wide opening typically reflects loss of seal at the posterior border or overextension/underextension of the denture borders in the pterygomaxillary region. The posterior palatal seal and hamular notch extension are the primary determinants of retention against dislodging forces.
Question 33Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which implant prosthodontic principle best explains why a single posterior implant crown should avoid a cantilever?
- Cantilevers reduce the implant crown-to-root ratio
- Cantilevers eliminate the need for a screw-retained design
- Cantilevers increase bending moments and off-axis loading on the implant and abutment screw Correct answer.
- Cantilevers improve the anterior guidance
Explanation
A cantilever converts occlusal force into a bending moment that concentrates stress at the implant-abutment interface and can lead to screw loosening or fracture. Keeping the restoration within the implant's footprint minimizes off-axis loading.
Question 34Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A removable partial denture is being designed for a Kennedy Class II mandibular arch with a distal extension. Which component is most important for distributing forces to the abutment and residual ridge?
- A rigid major connector with a stress-releasing direct retainer design Correct answer.
- A cast circumferential clasp engaging the undercut from the occlusal
- A solely tooth-supported design with no tissue contact
- A lingual bar placed at the gingival margin
Explanation
Distal-extension RPDs are tissue- and tooth-supported, so forces must be shared. A rigid major connector with stress-releasing retainers (such as an RPI or wrought-wire clasp) allows the base to move slightly and limits torque on the abutment.
Question 35Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A metal-ceramic crown is returned from the laboratory with a facial porcelain surface that appears chalky and opaque. Which laboratory variable is the most likely cause?
- Excessive condensation of porcelain
- Too many opaque layers
- Incorrect die spacer thickness
- Insufficient porcelain firing temperature or underfiring Correct answer.
Explanation
Underfired porcelain lacks proper vitrification, producing a chalky, opaque, and weak surface. Adequate firing temperature and vacuum are required for translucency and density.
Question 36Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which record is essential before mounting casts for a fixed prosthodontic case involving a change in occlusal vertical dimension?
- A facebow transfer and centric relation record Correct answer.
- A panoramic radiograph only
- A photograph of the smile line
- A periodontal probing chart
Explanation
When the vertical dimension changes, the casts must be related to the hinge axis and to centric relation. A facebow transfer plus a centric relation record allows the articulator to reproduce the patient's maxillary position and jaw relationship.
Question 37Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient with a maxillary complete denture reports food collecting under the denture and recurrent soreness in the vestibule. Which border adjustment is most likely indicated?
- Shortening an overextended labial or buccal border Correct answer.
- Deepening the posterior palatal seal
- Reducing the incisal guidance
- Increasing the vertical dimension
Explanation
Overextended borders impinge on the vestibular mucosa, causing soreness and food entrapment as the denture dislodges. Shortening the overextended border relieves the impingement and improves the seal.
Question 38Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient presents with a missing mandibular first molar and the adjacent second molar has drifted mesially, reducing the space to 6 mm. Which option is the most appropriate first consideration for an implant-supported restoration?
- Use a cantilevered crown from the second molar
- Place a short implant with a wide platform
- Proceed with orthodontic uprighting to regain space before implant placement Correct answer.
- Place a narrow-diameter implant and restore with a custom abutment
Explanation
Insufficient mesiodistal space from drifting should first be corrected by orthodontic uprighting to restore the appropriate space and parallel the abutments. Implant placement into a compromised space risks poor emergence and biomechanical problems.
Question 39Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A screw-retained implant crown shows a small radiolucency at the implant-abutment junction and the patient reports a loose crown. Which is the most likely explanation?
- Abutment screw loosening Correct answer.
- Peri-implantitis with bone loss
- Cement washout
- Implant fracture
Explanation
A loose screw-retained crown with radiolucency at the junction most often reflects abutment screw loosening, which allows micromotion and bacterial ingress. Retightening to the manufacturer's torque and re-evaluating the occlusion is indicated.
Question 40Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which factor most strongly determines the choice between a cement-retained and a screw-retained implant-supported fixed partial denture in the posterior maxilla?
- The retrievability needed and the angulation of the implants Correct answer.
- The patient's preference for a metal-free restoration
- The number of implants placed
- The color of the implant abutment
Explanation
The decision hinges on retrievability and the ability to achieve a screw channel with acceptable angulation and emergence. Screw retention is preferred when access and angulation allow; cement retention is used when esthetics or angulation preclude a screw channel.
Question 41Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient with a Kennedy Class I maxillary arch is being treated with an RPD. Which design feature is most important to protect the abutment teeth from torque during function?
- A stress-releasing direct retainer such as an RPI clasp assembly Correct answer.
- A rigid lingual plate with cast circumferential clasps
- A continuous clasp engaging the lingual undercut
- A palatal strap with no rests
Explanation
Class I RPDs are bilateral distal-extension situations, so the bases rotate around the abutments. An RPI clasp assembly with a mesial rest and distal proximal plate provides stress release and limits torque.
Question 42Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A complete denture patient has a severely resorbed mandibular ridge. Which impression technique is most likely to improve retention and stability?
- A single alginate impression in a stock tray
- A wash impression with light-body material in a stock tray
- A digital intraoral scan without border molding
- A border-molded custom tray impression with selective pressure and a functional border seal Correct answer.
Explanation
A custom tray with border molding records the functional borders and provides an accurate, well-sealed impression that maximizes the denture-bearing area. Selective pressure allows the tissues to be recorded in a functional state.
Question 43Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which statement best describes the role of the anterior guidance in a fixed prosthodontic reconstruction?
- It should provide immediate disclusion of posterior teeth in eccentric movements without interferences Correct answer.
- It should be as steep as possible to reduce posterior loading
- It should be absent to avoid anterior tooth wear
- It should be identical to the patient's existing wear pattern
Explanation
Anterior guidance should allow smooth, immediate posterior disclusion in protrusive and lateral movements while avoiding interferences. This protects posterior restorations and the temporomandibular system.
Question 44Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A metal-ceramic bridge has been in service for 8 years, and the patient reports a metallic taste with recurrent caries at the distal margin of the first premolar retainer. Which is the most likely cause?
- Porcelain fracture
- Marginal leakage from a deficient distal margin Correct answer.
- Occlusal overload from a steep cusp
- Abutment screw loosening
Explanation
Recurrent caries with a metallic taste suggests marginal breakdown and leakage at a deficient margin, allowing plaque and oral fluids to reach the tooth. The margin must be re-evaluated and the restoration replaced or repaired.
Question 45Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which of the following is the most appropriate indication for a resin-bonded fixed partial denture?
- A patient with a missing anterior tooth and significant periodontal bone loss on the abutments
- A patient with a missing maxillary lateral incisor and minimally restored adjacent teeth Correct answer.
- A patient with a missing tooth and a deep vertical overlap
- A patient with a missing mandibular first molar and heavy parafunction
Explanation
Resin-bonded FPDs are best suited to replacing a single anterior tooth when the adjacent teeth are minimally restored and the occlusion is favorable. They preserve tooth structure and are esthetically acceptable.
Question 46Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient reports that a new maxillary complete denture falls when speaking but is retentive when eating. Which factor is most likely responsible?
- Excessive vertical dimension
- Incorrect tooth shade
- Insufficient posterior palatal seal Correct answer.
- Overextended buccal borders
Explanation
Speech involves tongue and soft palate movement that can break the posterior seal, causing the denture to drop. An inadequate posterior palatal seal is a common cause of dislodgement during speech.
Question 47Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which factor most increases the risk of porcelain chipping at the incisal edge of a metal-ceramic crown?
- Adequate incisal reduction of 2 mm
- A lingual metal collar
- Properly fired opaque layer
- Insufficient metal framework support and a thin layer of unsupported porcelain Correct answer.
Explanation
Porcelain requires a metal substructure for support; a thin, unsupported layer at the incisal edge is prone to chipping under occlusal or incisal load. Adequate framework design and reduction prevent this.
Question 48Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient with a mandibular implant-supported overdenture reports that the prosthesis rotates around the anterior attachments. Which design change is most likely to improve stability?
- Placing a posterior implant or extending the bar distally to provide posterior support Correct answer.
- Reducing the number of attachments
- Adding a distal cantilever to the bar
- Increasing the vertical dimension
Explanation
Rotation around the anterior attachments indicates lack of posterior support. Adding a posterior implant or extending the bar distally provides a posterior stop and improves stability.
Question 49Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
Which is the primary reason for using a night guard in a patient with a metal-ceramic reconstruction and evidence of bruxism?
- To replace the need for regular recall
- To improve the shade of the restorations
- To increase the retention of fixed restorations
- To protect the restorations and the remaining dentition from excessive occlusal forces Correct answer.
Explanation
An occlusal splint distributes and cushions parafunctional forces, protecting both the restorations and the natural teeth from wear, fracture, and mobility. It does not alter the restorations themselves.
Question 50Prosthodontics (Fixed, Removable, Implant-Supported)
A patient presents with a fractured maxillary central incisor crown at the cervical margin. The tooth has a post and core and 3 mm of remaining ferrule. Which is the most appropriate management?
- Fabricate a new crown after re-preparing the tooth Correct answer.
- Remove the post and core and re-restore with a new post and core and crown
- Extract the tooth and place an implant
- Cement the fractured crown fragment back with resin cement
Explanation
With adequate ferrule and a stable post and core, the tooth can often be re-prepared and a new crown fabricated. Reusing the fractured fragment is unpredictable, and extraction is not indicated when the tooth is restorable.