Dental Flashcards
(36 cards)
What are the most common causes of halitosis?
Poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, food debris, dry mouth, sinus infections, and gastrointestinal reflux.
How does halitosis from oral sources differ from systemic causes?
Oral halitosis is related to plaque, gingivitis, or tongue coating, while systemic causes (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease) produce distinct odors such as fruity (ketoacidosis) or ammonia-like (renal failure).
What are the best treatment strategies for halitosis?
Proper oral hygiene, tongue scraping, hydration, antibacterial mouth rinses, and treating underlying infections or conditions.
What are the common symptoms and complications of bruxism?
Jaw pain, headaches, tooth wear, fractures, TMJ dysfunction, and muscle hypertrophy.
How does sleep bruxism differ from awake bruxism?
Sleep bruxism is involuntary and occurs during sleep, while awake bruxism is often related to stress or habits.
What are the treatment options for bruxism?
Night guards, stress management, behavioral therapy, and in severe cases, Botox injections to reduce muscle activity.
What are the key clinical signs of a dental abscess?
Severe localized tooth pain, swelling, erythema, fluctuance, fever, and possible purulent drainage.
How do you differentiate between a periapical abscess and a periodontal abscess?
Periapical abscesses originate at the tooth root due to pulp infection, while periodontal abscesses form in the gum due to periodontal disease.
What is the appropriate management for a dental abscess?
Incision and drainage, antibiotics (amoxicillin-clavulanate or clindamycin), pain control, and dental referral for possible root canal or extraction.
What are the common causes of tooth pain?
Dental caries, pulpitis, periodontal disease, abscess, bruxism, and sinus infections.
How does reversible pulpitis differ from irreversible pulpitis?
Reversible pulpitis causes transient pain triggered by cold, while irreversible pulpitis causes persistent, spontaneous pain that may worsen with heat.
What treatments can alleviate a toothache in the field before definitive dental care?
NSAIDs or acetaminophen, warm saltwater rinses, temporary dental filling material, and antibiotics if an infection is present.
What are the primary risk factors for dental caries?
High sugar intake, poor oral hygiene, low fluoride exposure, and dry mouth.
How do early-stage caries differ from advanced caries?
Early-stage caries appear as white demineralization spots, while advanced caries cause enamel breakdown, pain, and possible pulp involvement.
What are the prevention strategies for dental caries?
Fluoride use, regular brushing/flossing, diet modification, dental sealants, and regular dental check-ups.
What are the classifications of tooth fractures?
Ellis Class I (enamel only), Class II (involves dentin), Class III (involves pulp), and Class IV (root fracture).
How is an Ellis Class III fracture managed?
Immediate dental referral, covering exposed pulp with calcium hydroxide or dental cement, and pain control.
What are potential complications of an untreated tooth fracture?
Pulp necrosis, infection, abscess formation, and tooth loss.
What is the recommended immediate action for an avulsed permanent tooth?
Rinse gently with saline or milk, avoid touching the root, and reimplant within 30 minutes if possible.
If immediate reimplantation is not possible, how should the tooth be transported?
In Hank’s balanced salt solution, milk, or saliva (buccal mucosa).
What is the prognosis of a reimplanted tooth, and what follow-up is needed?
Prognosis depends on time out of the socket; follow-up includes splinting and root canal therapy within 7-10 days.
What are the common symptoms of gingivitis?
Gum redness, swelling, bleeding with brushing, and bad breath.
What is the primary cause of gingivitis?
Plaque buildup leading to gum inflammation without bone loss.
How is gingivitis treated and prevented?
Improved oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and chlorhexidine mouthwash for severe cases.
