The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers certification exams for dental assistants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field. The DANB is a non-profit organization that has provided dental certification exams for over 75 years.
DANB certification exams include:
- Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam.
- Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam.
- Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) exam.
These exams assess the candidate’s understanding of the skills and knowledge required to perform their job competently and safely.
Did you know?
The DANB CDA Exam has three sections: (1) General Chairside (GC), (2) Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), and (3) Infection Control (ICE). The CDA exam consists of 255 questions to be answered in 3 hours and 15 minutes. Scores range from 100 to 900, with a passing score of 400.
The CDA exam is the most prominent exam offered by DANB. It is a rigorous and comprehensive examination that assesses the knowledge and skills of dental assistants in the United States. The CDA credential is widely recognized in the dental industry. It demonstrates a dental assistant’s commitment to professionalism, competence, and patient safety.
DANB Certification Question Types
The dental assistant certification process allows dental assistants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and competence in the field. Certification is typically offered by professional organizations or regulatory bodies. It is recognized by employers as a mark of professional excellence.
To become certified as a dental assistant, candidates must typically meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination. The requirements and examination format may vary depending on the certifying organization or regulatory body.
The DANB offers several certification exams for dental assistants such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA), and Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) exams. To be eligible for these exams, candidates must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited dental assisting program, have work experience in the field, and hold current CPR certification.
Certified Dental Assistant Exam Format
As previously discussed, CDA is the most prominent certificate offered by DANB. Therefore, it is crucial to be knowledgeable about every aspect of the exam. You must pass the CDA exam to be certified as a CDA
| Test Sections | No. of Questions | Time for Exam | Test Domains and Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Chairside Assisting (GC) | 95 MCQ Questions | 75 minutes | I. Evaluation (17% – 16 questions) II. Patient Management and Administration (50% – 48 questions) III. Chairside Dentistry (50%) Dental Materials (16% – 15 questions) |
| Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) | 80 MCQ Questions | 60 minutes | I. Purpose and Technique (50% – 40 questions) II. Radiation Safety (25% – 20 questions) III. Infection Prevention and Control (25% – 20 questions) |
| Infection Control (ICE) | 80 MCQ Questions | 60 minutes | I. Prevention of Disease Transmission (20% – 16 questions) II. Prevention of Cross-contamination (34% – 27 questions) III. Process Instruments and Devices (26% – 21 questions) Occupational Safety and Administration Protocols (20% – 16 questions) |
The CDA exam offered by the DANB consists of three component exams: General Chairside Assisting (GC), Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), and Infection Control (ICE).
General Chairside Assisting (GC)
This exam evaluates a candidate’s chairside dental assisting knowledge and skills. It covers dental anatomy and terminology, patient management, instrument and equipment use, and dental materials. The GC exam consists of 95 multiple-choice questions and has a testing time of 75 minutes.
GC Sample Question
What is the purpose of an air-water syringe in dental procedures?
- To remove excess tooth material
- To deliver a stream of air to dry the tooth surface
- To deliver a stream of water to clean the tooth surface
- To deliver a combination of air and water for rinsing and drying the tooth surface
The correct answer is D.
Explanation:
The air-water syringe is a commonly used dental instrument that delivers a combination of air and water for rinsing and drying the tooth surface during dental procedures. It is an important tool for maintaining a dry field, which is necessary for proper bonding, impression-making, and other dental procedures.
Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
The RHS exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge of radiation safety in the dental office. It covers the proper use and handling of dental radiographic equipment and materials, radiation physics, and radiation protection. The RHS exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and has a testing time of 60 minutes.
RHS Sample Question
What is the purpose of a lead apron during dental radiography?
- To protect the patient from radiation exposure
- To protect the dental assistant from radiation exposure
- To protect the dental equipment from radiation damage
- To improve the quality of the dental radiographs
The correct answer is A.
Explanation:
The lead apron is a protective barrier used during dental radiography to protect the patient from unnecessary radiation exposure. The lead apron is designed to absorb most of the scattered radiation that would otherwise reach the patient’s body. It is vital to use the lead apron during dental radiography to ensure patient safety and minimize radiation exposure.
Infection Control (ICE)
The ICE exam evaluates a candidate’s understanding of infection control procedures in the dental office. It covers sterilization and disinfection techniques, personal protective equipment use, and OSHA regulations. The ICE exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and has a testing time of 60 minutes.
ICE Sample Question
Which of the following is the most effective method for sterilizing dental instruments?
- Cold sterilization with glutaraldehyde
- Hot air sterilization
- Steam autoclaving
- Chemical disinfection with bleach
The correct answer is C.
Explanation:
Steam autoclaving is the most effective method for sterilizing dental instruments. This method uses high temperature and pressure to kill all microorganisms on the surface of the instruments. Hot air sterilization and chemical disinfection with bleach are less effective and may not completely sterilize the tools.
Each component exam is computer-based and utilizes a scaled scoring system to report results. Candidates must pass all three component exams within five years to earn their CDA certification.
DANB CDA Preparation Strategy
A dental assistant is a good career choice. There is a considerable need for more dental assistants, although there are over 332,000 in the US (per the Bureau of Labor Statistics).
The employment of dental assistants is predicted to increase by 19% between 2016 and 2026, which is well above average considering all other occupations.
You must crack the DANB CDA Exam to become a certified dental assistant. Here are a few tips that will increase your chances of success.
Know Your Study Style
Everyone has a slightly distinct learning style. Drawing sketches of the study material could be beneficial if you learn concepts best when presented with visual information. If you learn best through aural means, there are many lectures and podcasts on YouTube that cover your test topic. If you learn best through conversation, form a study group to go over subjects.
Treat Study Time as if It Were a Job
Make a study schedule and stick to it. Many individuals postpone studying until the end of the day or attempt to fit it in on weekends. However, it’s best to study when you are prepared to focus. Keep in mind that shorter learning sessions are preferable to longer ones. Use doctor’s appointment wait periods, lunch breaks, and even commute times to study. Doing so ensures you are making the most of your time.
Take Study Breaks
While you should take enough time to study, it’s important not to overdo it. If you push yourself too much, you will feel mentally exhausted. You will lose focus and may end up wasting time. It’s essential to include breaks in your study routine. Breaks will give your brain time to rest so it’s ready to consume more content. However, it’s important to keep your breaks in check. Set a timer so you get back to studying and don’t spend too much time scrolling social media.
Take Help From an Online Preparation Course
You will never reach your goal if you take the wrong path. Therefore, proper guidance, along with suitable preparation material, is essential. Online courses can be helpful. They provide you with mock tests and practice papers that help you get familiar with the test’s format. An online course offers information that is accessible at any time. Updates can be made in real-time. These conveniences make it preferable to an offline course.
Invest In Yourself
There are various study materials you can purchase such as audio courses, online courses, practice exams, mock tests, etc. These are all worth investing in. Find out which method best suits your study style and stick to it. At first, you might feel that purchasing study material is an extra financial burden. But once you pass the test and land a job as a dental assistant, the huge returns will make your investment worthwhile.
Practice Questions
Practice exams are your most important study tool. Practice question banks provide individuals with explanations as to why a choice is right or wrong. They also offer an outline of the content relevant to the question at hand. An online program will track your progress and allow you to retest yourself. Self-testing will help you identify your strong and weak areas so you can make necessary improvements.
Believe In Yourself
The most important point is to believe in yourself. Self-confidence will help you succeed. Remember that you have conquered other requirements to make it this far. Give yourself a pat on the back and be confident when tackling this final hurdle leading to your dental assistant career.
DANB CDA Exam Tips
The DANB offers some tips that will help you pass the (CDA) exam as follows:
- Understand the exam content: Ensure you are familiar with the content areas covered on the CDA exam such as infection control, chairside assisting, dental materials, and radiation health and safety. Study the exam content outline provided by DANB to ensure you are covering all the necessary topics.
- Use study materials: DANB provides study materials such as study guides and practice tests to help you prepare for the CDA exam. Utilize these resources to get a better understanding of the content.
- Create a study plan: Set aside dedicated study time each day or week leading up to the exam. Create a study plan that incorporates study materials, practice tests, and a review of notes or textbooks.
- Practice time management: The CDA exam is timed, so it’s crucial to practice time management. During practice tests, aim to answer questions within the allotted time to simulate the exam experience.
- Take advantage of resources: Consider joining study groups, attending review courses, or seeking guidance from a dental professional to help you prepare for the exam.
- Get a good night’s sleep: Make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam. Being well-rested will help you stay focused during the exam allowing you to perform your best.
- Stay calm and focused: Stay calm and focused when taking the exam. Take deep breaths, read questions carefully, and pace yourself. Don’t rush through the exam; take your time to ensure you understand each question and select the best answer.
DANB CDA Features
Become a Professional Dental Assistant
Getting a certificate of DANB CDA can significantly help you in landing a job as a Professional Dental Assistant. This certificate proves that an individual has the knowledge and skills to be a successful Dental Assistant.
Numerous Benefits Come Along With the Certifications
There are many reasons to earn dental assistant certification including the following:
Pride: Earning certification is a significant milestone in your dental assistant career. It means you have the experience and education required to deliver a standard of care. It makes your patients confident that you will provide them with the best service.
Confidence: Dental assistants have many responsibilities. Your team members and patients will expect you to keep up. And with the profession continuously evolving, it’s essential to stay on your toes. A certification will help you gain faith in your skills and expertise allowing you to perform your best.
Commitment: Dental assistants are responsible for helping patients improve their oral health. Getting a certificate shows you are dedicated to the cause, serious about your work, and committed to the profession.
Opportunities: There are many career options a dental assistant can choose from. You can work in the public health sector or do private work. You can get into dental sales, dental education, and more. A certification not only adds options to this list of opportunities, but it also provides direction to your career. It increases your chances of getting hired at a higher salary and receiving more raises.
DANB Exams Credentialing
Successfully passing DANB exams can lead to credentialing as a certified Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA), or Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA).
DANB Common and Past Names
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) has undergone several name changes over the years. Here are some names they have had in the past.
1949-1977: The National Association of Dental Examiners (NADE). 1977-1990: The National Commission on Dental Assisting (NCDA) 1990-1998: The Dental Assisting National Board
1998- present: The Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB)
Technical Facts
DANB CDA Fast Facts
- Three Components of Test
- General Chairside Assisting (GC)- 95 MCQ questions
- Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)- 80 MCQ questions
- Infection Control (ICE)- 80 MCQ question
- 195 minutes long
- Multiple-choice questions for all items.
- The passing score for the DANB CDA exam is 400 or higher. The three components of the exam are scored separately. You must score at least 250 on each to pass the exam.
- Question Types: The question types are different on all three components:
- General Chairside Assisting (GC) Exam: This exam covers topics related to chairside dental assisting such as assisting with dental procedures, infection control, and dental materials.
- Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Exam: This exam covers topics related to dental radiography such as radiation safety, equipment operation, and image processing.
- Infection Control (ICE) Exam: This exam covers topics related to infection control in the dental office such as sterilization and disinfection, OSHA regulations, and medical emergencies.
- The exam is computer-based.
The Process to Become a Certified Dental Assistant
There are several steps involved in becoming a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). These include:
Meet Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must meet at least one of the following requirements to take the CDA exam:-
- Option 1: Graduate from a Dental Assisting Program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
- Option 2: Have at least two years/3500 hours of work experience as a dental assistant, with at least 2000 hours of work experience in general dental practice.
- Option 3: A combination of dental assisting education and work experience that equals at least two years/3500 hours, with at least 2000 hours in general dental practice.
Apply for the exam: Candidates must apply for the CDA exam through the DANB website and pay the examination fee. The application involves verifying eligibility and submitting documentation such as transcripts or work experience verification.
Take the exam: Candidates must schedule and take the exam at a Pearson VUE test center.
Receive exam results: Candidates receive their exam results immediately after completing the exam. A passing score of 400 or higher is required to earn the CDA credential.
Receive CDA credentials: Candidates who pass the exam are awarded with the CDA certification by DANB which is valid for a year. They can renew it by taking a continuing education course or re-examination.
DANB CDA Exam Accommodation
Candidates with a disability or medical condition can request reasonable testing accommodations for the DANB CDA exam by completing the accommodation request form and submitting it to DANB. If the request is approved, DANB will work with the candidate and the test center to provide special accommodations on exam day.
DANB CDA Exam Language and Geography
The CDA exam can be taken at Pearson VUE test centers throughout the United States. Although the exam is only offered in the USA. International candidates may be eligible to take it if they meet certain requirements. They must contact DANB to verify their eligibility and make their own travel arrangements.
DANB CDA exam is available in English; however, translation dictionaries or services may be permitted during the exam for non-English speaking individuals.
Other DANB Certifications
While the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification is the most common one, DANB offers additional certifications, some require similar topics to those of the CDA.
| Certification name | Goals of the certification | Exams required | Renewable Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) | Ideal for candidates who are starting their dental careers. | ● Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology (AMP) ● Infection Control (ICE) ● Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) | NELDA certification must be renewed each year. To renew your NELDA certification must complete a continuing education course, maintain your CPR certificate, and submit the renewal fee. |
| Certified Orthodontic Dental Assistant (COA) | Created for dental assistants who work in an orthodontic practice or have experience working with orthodontic patients. | ● Orthodontic Assisting (OA) ● Infection Control (IC) | COA certification must be renewed each year. To renew your COA certification you must complete a continuing education course, maintain your CPR certificate, and submit the renewal fee. |
| Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) | Focuses on the advanced functions of preventative treatments performed by dental assistants, such as sealants, coronal polishing, and topical fluoride. | ● Coronal Polishing (CP) ● Sealants (SE) ● Topical Fluoride (TF) | CPFDA certification must be renewed each year. To renew your CPFDA certification, you must complete a continuing education course, maintain your CPR certificate, and submit the renewal fee. |
| Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) | Focuses on the restorative functions which are performed by dental assistants, including impressions, sealants, and temporaries. | ● Impressions (IM) ● Temporaries (TMP) ● Sealants (SE) Restorative Function (RF) | CRFDA certification must be renewed each year. To renew your CRFDA certification, you must complete a continuing education course, maintain your CPR certificate, and submit the renewal fee. |
| Certified in Dental Infection Prevention and Control (CDIPC) | The CDIPC certification focuses on dental infection control. | ● CDIPC Exam | CDIPC certification must be renewed each year. To renew your CDIPC certification, you must complete a continuing education course, maintain your CPR certificate, and submit the renewal fee. |
| Dental Industry Specialist in Infection Prevention and Control (DISIPC) | The DISIPC certification is intended for dental sales representatives and managers, dental practice managers, and other non-clinical dental professionals. | ● DISIPC Exam | DISIPC certification must be renewed annually. To renew your DISIPC certification you must complete a continuing education course, maintain your CPR certificate, and submit the renewal fee. |
DANB Exams
In this section, we will review the exams you must take to receive the credentials above.
| Exam | Content | Certifications that require passing the exam |
|---|---|---|
| Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam | Radiation Physics Radiation Biology Radiographic Techniques Regulation and Guidelines Quality Assurance | National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) |
| Infection Control (ICE) exam | Microbiology and Disease Transmission OSHA Regulations and Guidelines Infection Control Procedure Environmental Infection Control Dental Unit Waterlines Emerging Infections | National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) |
| General Chairside Assisting (GC) exam | Chairside Assisting Procedure Dental Anatomy and Physiology Radiology | Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) |
| Certified Assistant Dental (CDA) exam Assistant | General Chairside Assisting (GC) Infection Control (ICE) Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) | Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) |
| Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology (AMP) exam | Anatomy Morphology Physiology | National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) |
| Orthodontic Assisting (OA) | Basic Sciences Orthodontic Procedures Patient Education and Communication Office Operations | Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) |
Results Scale and Interpretations
DANB Result Analysis
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) uses a scaled scoring system to report results. The scale ranges from 100 to 900, with a passing score of 400 for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, 325 for the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam, and 400 for the Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) exam.
The scaled scoring system considers the exam questions’ difficulty level and ensures that the passing standard is consistent across different exam administrations. The score report will show the candidate’s overall score and offer a breakdown of their performance in each content area covered on the exam.
DANB exam results are generally available immediately after the candidate completes the exam. Candidates will receive a printed score report at the testing center. Their results will also be available online through their DANB account.
DANB Result Interpretation
Interpretation of the results depends on the exam. A passing score on the CDA exam indicates that the candidate has demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of a dental assistant. A passing score on the COA exam indicates that the candidate has demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of an orthodontic assistant. A passing score on the CPFDA exam indicates that the candidate has demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to perform preventive functions in a dental office. Candidates who do not pass the exam can retake it after a waiting period. They must also pay the exam fee again.
DANB CDA Exam Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a DANB exam, candidates must meet certain education and/or work experience requirements which vary depending on the exam.
To be eligible to take the CDA exam, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Dental assisting education: Candidates must have graduated from a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or a program that is equivalent to a CODA-accredited program.
- Work experience: Candidates must have at least 3,500 hours (approximately two years) of work experience as a dental assistant, or must have graduated from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program within the past year.
- CPR certification: Candidates must be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by a DANB-accepted provider.
- Application: Candidates must complete and submit a CDA exam application to DANB and pay the exam fee.
Candidates must meet all of the eligibility requirements at the time of application and at the time of exam administration. Once eligibility has been confirmed by DANB, candidates will receive an authorization to test (ATT) letter which will provide instructions on scheduling the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.
Some states have additional requirements for dental assistants such as obtaining state licensure or certification. Candidates should check with their state dental board to ensure they meet all the requirements to practice as dental assistants.
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FAQs
The DANB exams are a series of exams that test the knowledge and skills of a dental assistant. These exams include the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) exam, the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam, and the Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) exam.
The CDA exam is a certification exam for dental assistants. It tests knowledge and skills in General Chairside Assisting, Infection Control, and Radiation Health and Safety.
The application fee varies depending on the exam you are taking. As of recent data, the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam has an application fee of $270, the Infection Control (ICE) exam has an application fee of $270, the DANB’s General Chairside Assisting (GC) exam has an application fee of $270, and Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam has an application fee of $450.
The DANB provides a subset of performance ratings so candidates know whether or not they passed the test, which areas they performed well in, and which areas require improvement. Subset scores are rated as high average, average, and low average. The DANB scaled score ranges between 100 and 900, where the lowest score is 100, and the highest is 900.
DANB certification must be renewed every one to three years, depending upon the type. Candidates are required to complete continuing education to renew the certification.
There is no straightforward answer to this question because of different dental assisting regulations in every state. check with the dental board of that specific state to find out what duties a dental assistant is expected to perform and the requirements they must meet. You can also access the state-specific section of DANB’s official website for summaries and charts of dental assisting requirements and state dental board contact information.
DANB exams are offered at secure test centers throughout the USA year-round. The first step towards a DANB exam is downloading the application packet for the exam you want to take from the DANB website. The application packet consists of a list that features all the test centers. Once you have reviewed the information, fill in the application form for the exam, pay the fees, and submit the required documents. Once DANB processes your application, you will receive a notice with instructions on how to set up your exam appointment.
Administration
Test Administrators: Dental Assisting National Board conducts all the certification exams, including the CDA exam.
Test Schedule: Once your application is approved, you will have 60 days from the date of application to schedule and take your exam.
Test Format: Mostly multiple choice computer-based tests.
Test Materials: A computer-based exam; no extraneous material is allowed at the test centers.
Cost: Every exam conducted by DANB has different application fees; for instance: the Infection Control (ICE) exam has an application fee of $270, while the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam will cost every candidate $450.
Retake Policy: The retake policy for every DANB exam is slightly different. Here is what’s involved in the CDA exam.
If you cannot pass all the components of the exam, you are not required to retake the entire test. Instead, you must reapply for the features you did not pass. If you failed an exam, as per the DANB’s retest policy, you can submit a new application along with the fees and documents as per the requirement.
Test Provider
DANB, or the Dental Assisting National Board, administers all the Dental Assistant Exams, including the CDA exam. DANB is recognized as the national certification board for dental assistants by the American Dental Association. More than 34,000 dental assistants are certified by the DANB. The organization issues around 50,000 certificates to individuals who can pass its state and national exams every year.
Information Sources
Disclaimer – All the information and prep materials on iPrep are genuine and were created for tutoring purposes. iPrep is not affiliated with DANB which is the owner and publisher of the registered trademarks CDA exam, COA exam, NELDA exam, GC exam, ICE exam, RHS exam, and any other trademarks mentioned in this article.
Free DANB practice test: Get to know what the Dental Assistant Certification Test will be like by practicing with these sample questions:
GC Sample Question 1 of 3
What is the purpose of a dental matrix?
- To cover the tooth and protect it from damage during a procedure.
- To create an impression of the tooth for a crown or bridge.
- To hold composite material in place while it is being cured.
- To remove calculus and plaque from the tooth surface.
The correct answer is C.
Explanation:
A dental matrix is a thin, flexible strip that is placed around a tooth to hold composite material in place while it is being cured. This helps to create a tight contact between the filling material and the tooth, which prevents food and bacteria from getting stuck between the tooth and the filling. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the purpose of a dental matrix.
GC Sample Question 2 of 3
Which of the following types of dental fillings hardens through a chemical reaction and requires a blue light to set?
- Composite resin
- Glass ionomer
- Amalgam
- Gold
The correct answer is A.
Explanation:
Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored and harden through a chemical reaction that is activated by a blue light. Glass ionomer fillings also harden through a chemical reaction, but do not require a blue light to set. Amalgam fillings are silver in color and harden through a chemical reaction without the need for a light. Gold fillings are less common and are made of a gold alloy that is shaped to fit the cavity and cemented in place.
GC Sample Question 3 of 3
What is the primary function of dental sealants?
- To restore a decayed tooth
- To whiten discolored teeth
- To protect teeth from decay
- To replace missing teeth
The correct answer is C.
Explanation:
Dental sealants are a thin coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to protect them from decay. They work by filling in the grooves and pits of the teeth, creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean and less likely to trap food particles and bacteria.
RHS Sample Question 1 of 3
What is the maximum permissible dose (MPD) of radiation exposure for occupational workers in the United States?
- 5 millisieverts (mSv) per year.
- 10 millisieverts (mSv) per year.
- 50 millisieverts (mSv) per year.
- 100 millisieverts (mSv) per year.
The correct answer is C.
Explanation:
The maximum permissible dose (MPD) of radiation exposure for occupational workers in the United States is 50 millisieverts (mSv) per year. This limit is set by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and is designed to protect workers from the harmful effects of radiation exposure. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the MPD for radiation exposure in the United States.
RHS Sample Question 2 of 3
What is the most effective way to reduce radiation exposure for both the patient and the dental team during dental X-rays?
- Using a lower radiation dose
- Increasing the exposure time
- Decreasing the distance between the X-ray source and the patient
- Using a higher kilovoltage setting
The correct answer is A.
Explanation:
The use of digital X-rays and advanced imaging techniques can reduce radiation exposure for both patients and dental professionals. By using the lowest possible dose of radiation, the amount of exposure can be minimized. Increasing the exposure time or decreasing the distance between the X-ray source and the patient can result in increased exposure, and using a higher kilovoltage setting can increase the image quality but also increase the amount of radiation exposure.
RHS Sample Question 3 of 3
What is the purpose of the collimator on a dental x-ray machine?
- To produce a high-quality image
- To control the size and shape of the x-ray beam
- To protect the patient from radiation exposure
- To prevent artifacts on the radiograph
The correct answer is B.
Explanation:
The collimator is a device on the x-ray machine that controls the size and shape of the x-ray beam. It helps to limit the amount of radiation exposure to the patient by ensuring that only the area of interest is exposed to radiation. This also helps to produce a high-quality image by reducing scatter radiation and minimizing artifacts on the radiograph.
ICE Sample Question 1 of 3
Which of the following is an example of a critical item that must be sterilized before use in a dental procedure?
- Protective eyewear
- Dental chair
- Amalgamator
- Handpiece
The correct answer is D.
Explanation:
A handpiece is an example of a critical item that must be sterilized before use in a dental procedure. Critical items are those that are used to penetrate soft tissue or bone, such as needles, scalers, and burs. They must be sterilized after each use to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they are not critical items that require sterilization.
ICE Sample Question 2 of 3
Which of the following is the correct order for donning personal protective equipment (PPE)?
- Wash hands, put on gown, put on mask, put on gloves
- Put on gloves, wash hands, put on gown, put on mask
- Put on mask, put on gown, wash hands, put on gloves
- Put on gown, put on gloves, put on mask, wash hands
The correct answer is D.
Explanation:
When donning PPE, the gown should be put on first, followed by gloves, then a mask or respirator, and finally eye protection if necessary. After putting on PPE, the hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Option A puts on the mask before the gloves, which can result in contamination of the mask while putting on the gloves. Option B puts on gloves before washing hands, which can also lead to contamination. Option C puts on the mask before the gown, which can result in contamination of the gown.
ICE Sample Question 3 of 3
Which of the following is an example of a critical item in a dental office?
- Blood pressure cuff
- Dental mirror
- Exam gloves
- Sterilization pouches
The correct answer is B.
Explanation:
Critical items are those that are used to penetrate soft tissue or bone, and therefore have the highest risk of transmitting infection. Examples include dental needles, scalers, and explorers. Dental mirrors are also considered critical items because they are placed intraorally and come into contact with mucous membranes.
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