Dental Assistant Practice Exam

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Study for the Dental Assistant Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you succeed. Get ready for your exam today!

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What is the function of a mouth mirror in dentistry?

To reflect light to the treatment area
To hold tissues aside during procedures
To extract teeth
To measure periodontal depth

The correct answer is: To reflect light to the treatment area

The function of a mouth mirror in dentistry primarily involves reflecting light to the treatment area. This reflective capability enhances visibility for the dentist during examinations and procedures, allowing for a clearer view of the oral cavity and treatment areas. The unique shape of the mouth mirror ensures that it can be maneuvered easily to illuminate hard-to-see areas, aiding in diagnostics and facilitating various dental tasks. While other instruments play specific roles in dental procedures—such as retracting tissues, which is done by tools like tissue retractors; extracting teeth with extraction forceps; or measuring periodontal depth using a periodontal probe—the mouth mirror is predominantly utilized for its reflective quality. This essential tool is foundational in ensuring that dental practitioners can perform their work accurately and efficiently.