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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Which of the following shapes describes spirochetes?

Spherical
Long and thin
Spiral-shaped
Rod-shaped

The correct answer is: Spiral-shaped

Spirochetes are a unique group of bacteria characterized by their distinct spiral shape. This morphology allows them to be flexible and motile, enabling them to move in a corkscrew motion through various environments, which is particularly advantageous in biological systems, such as the viscous fluids within the host's tissues. Their spiral structure differentiates them from other bacterial shapes such as spherical (cocci), rod-shaped (bacilli), or long and thin configurations, which do not accurately represent the helical nature of spirochetes. This spiral structure is vital for their ability to invade tissues and evade the immune response, making it an essential characteristic for understanding their biological behavior and role in diseases.