Core Dental Concepts

Question 1

What causes tooth decay? (1)

Answer 1

Bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus mutans) produce acid that erodes enamel.

Question 2

What are contributing factors to tooth decay? (3)

Answer 2

• Poor oral hygiene
• High sugar intake
• Dry mouth

Question 3

What are common signs of cavities? (4)

Answer 3

• Toothache
• Sensitivity
• Visible pits/holes
• Dark spots

Question 4

How often should you have dental check-ups? (1)

Answer 4

• Every 6 months

Question 5

What are ways to prevent tooth decay and gum disease? (4)

Answer 5

• Brush twice daily
  
  • Floss daily
  • Use fluoride toothpaste
  • Reduce sugar intake

Question 6

How should persistent tooth pain be managed? (1)

Answer 6

• See a dentist to evaluate for infection.

Question 7

What are causes of bad breath? (4)

Answer 7

• Poor oral hygiene
  
  • Dry mouth
  • Gum disease
  • Foods like garlic and onions

Question 8

What is a dental abscess? (1)

Answer 8

• A pocket of pus caused by infection.

Question 9

How is tooth sensitivity treated? (3)

Answer 9

• Desensitizing toothpaste
  
  • Fluoride treatments
  • Bonding procedures

Question 10

What is the reversibility of gum disease? (2)

Answer 10

• Gingivitis: Reversible
• Periodontitis: Manageable but not fully reversible

Question 11

What are proper brushing and flossing habits? (2)

Answer 11

• Brush for 2 minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss daily to remove plaque

Question 12

Why is oral health important during pregnancy? (1)

Answer 12

• Hormonal changes increase gingivitis risk.

Question 13

What is periodontitis, and how is it treated? (3)

Answer 13

• Severe gum infection damaging tissue and bone.
• Treated with scaling, root planing, and sometimes surgery.

Question 14

What are common symptoms of Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD)? (3)

Answer 14

• Jaw pain
• Clicking or popping sounds
• Difficulty chewing

Question 15

What is fluorosis? (1)

Answer 15

• Discoloration from excess fluoride during tooth development.

Question 16

What are common causes of dry mouth? (3)

Answer 16

• Medication side effects
• Dehydration
• Medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome

Question 17

What causes dental erosion, and how is it prevented? (2)

Answer 17

• Acid exposure from acidic foods/drinks.
• Prevent by reducing acidic intake.

Question 18

What is bruxism, and how is it treated? (2)

Answer 18

• Teeth grinding
• Treated with mouthguards, stress management, and lifestyle changes.

Question 19

How is oral health linked to overall health? (3)

Answer 19

• Linked to diabetes
• Heart disease
• Respiratory infections

Question 20

What is the difference between a bridge and a denture? (2)

Answer 20

• Bridge: Fixed replacement for missing teeth
• Denture: Removable appliance for multiple teeth

Question 21

Why are regular dental check-ups important? (2)

Answer 21

• Prevent disease progression
• Detect issues early

Question 22

What are risks of untreated infections? (3)

Answer 22

• Abscesses
• Tooth loss
• Systemic infections like sepsis

Question 23

What does fluoride do for teeth? (3)

Answer 23

• Strengthens enamel
• Prevents decay
• Promotes remineralization

Question 24

What are dental implants? (1)

Answer 24

• Artificial tooth roots supporting prosthetic teeth.

Question 24

How does diet impact oral health? (2)

Answer 24

• High sugar increases decay risk.
• Acidic foods increase erosion risk.

Question 25

What is the difference between a root canal and an extraction? (2)

Answer 25

• Root canal: Saves the natural tooth.
• Extraction: Removes the entire tooth.

Question 26

How does teeth grinding affect oral health? (3)

Answer 26

• Causes enamel wear
• Tooth fractures
• Jaw pain

Question 27

How does gum disease link to cardiovascular disease? (1)

Answer 27

• Gum inflammation may contribute to heart disease risk.

Question 28

What are complications of untreated gum disease? (3)

Answer 28

• Tooth loss
• Bone loss
• Increased systemic disease risk

Question 29

What is the link between oral health and respiratory disease? (1)

Answer 29

• Bacteria from the mouth can be aspirated into the lungs, causing infections.