Oral care

Question 1

Which of the following age-related changes occurs in the tooth dentin?

A) Increase in permeability
B) Decrease in thickness
C) Increase in thickness, eliminating space for the pulp
D) Increase in sensitivity to pain

Answer 1

Correct answer: C) Increase in thickness, eliminating space for the pulp

Question 2

What is a primary risk factor for dental decay in older adults?

A) Frequent dental visits
B) Lack of salivary flow
C) Increased consumption of fluoride
D) Increased complaints of dental pain

Answer 2

Correct answer: B) Lack of salivary flow

Question 3

Which of the following organisms is commonly associated with periodontitis?

A) Bacteria that form plaque
B) Candida albicans
C) Beta-hemolytic streptococci
D) Viruses that cause cold sores

Answer 3

Correct answer:* A) Bacteria that form plaque

Question 4

What is the significance of diminished sensitivity in the dental pulp of older adults?

A) Increased susceptibility to pain
B) Decreased risk of tooth decay
C) Reduced capacity for tooth repair
D) Increased response to bacterial infections

Answer 4

Correct answer:* C) Reduced capacity for tooth repair

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a common risk factor for dental decay in older adults?

A) Poor oral hygiene
B) Frequent consumption of sugary foods
C) Limited fluoride exposure
D) Regular fluoride treatments

Answer 5

Correct answer:* D) Regular fluoride treatments

Question 6

What condition does edentulism refer to?

A) Tooth decay
B) Loss of all teeth
C) Overgrowth of gum tissue
D) Chronic gingivitis

Answer 6

Correct answer: B) Loss of all teeth

Question 7

How does periodontitis differ from gingivitis?

A) Periodontitis is reversible, while gingivitis is not
B) Gingivitis affects deeper tissues, while periodontitis is limited to the gums
C) Periodontitis involves destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone
D) Gingivitis is caused by bacteria, while periodontitis is caused by viral infections

Answer 7

Correct answer:* C) Periodontitis involves destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone

Question 8

What is one positive impact of dentures in older adults?

A) They reduce the need for dental hygiene
B) They restore facial features and improve chewing ability
C) They prevent tooth decay in remaining teeth
D) They permanently replace the need for dental visits

Answer 8

Correct answer: B) They restore facial features and improve chewing ability

Question 9

What is the recommended treatment for advanced dental decay involving the dental pulp?

A) Tooth cleaning and fluoride treatment
B) Root canal or tooth extraction
C) Application of dental sealants
D) Temporary filling to delay further decay

Answer 9

Correct answer: B) Root canal or tooth extraction

Question 9

What is a common cause of dry mouth in older adults?

A) Increased salivary gland activity
B) Use of anticholinergic medications
C) High levels of hydration
D) Dental prosthetics

Answer 9

Correct answer:* B) Use of anticholinergic medications

Question 10

What is the role of chlorhexidine oral rinses in managing periodontal disease?

A) Reducing plaque formation
B) Reversing tooth decay
C) Treating advanced caries
D) Strengthening enamel

Answer 10

Correct answer: A) Reducing plaque formation

Question 11

Which demographic group is more likely to experience periodontitis?

A) Young adults under 30
B) Older adults with poor oral hygiene
C) Individuals with no history of smoking
D) Children and adolescents

Answer 11

Correct answer: B) Older adults with poor oral hygiene

Question 12

Which of the following is a major complication of untreated periodontitis?

A) Dental abscess
B) Reversible tooth decay
C) Increased salivary flow
D) Whitening of the teeth

Answer 12

Correct answer: A) Dental abscess

Question 13

What effect does edentulism have on older adults without prosthetic replacement?

A) Improved facial appearance
B) Decreased risk of aspiration
C) Compromised ability to chew, leading to nutritional deficiencies
D) Better speech and communication abilities

Answer 13

Correct answer: C) Compromised ability to chew, leading to nutritional deficiencies

Question 14

Why do older adults with joint replacements receive antibiotics before dental procedures?

A) To prevent tooth decay
B) To reduce the risk of bacterial infections spreading to joints
C) To improve healing after dental surgery
D) To increase salivary flow during procedures

Answer 14

Correct answer:* B) To reduce the risk of bacterial infections spreading to joints

Question 15

Which of the following is a common cause of squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth?

A) Frequent dental visits
B) Smoking and tobacco use
C) Poor fluoride intake
D) High sugar intake

Answer 15

Correct answer: B) Smoking and tobacco use

Question 16

What is the clinical significance of detecting erythroplakia or eukoplakia in the mouth?

A) Both are always benign and require no follow-up
B) Both are indicative of high risk for oral cancer and should be biopsied
C) Erythroplakia is benign, while leukoplakia is malignant
D) Both are signs of advanced dental caries

Answer 16

Correct answer:* B) Both are indicative of high risk for oral cancer and should be biopsied

Question 17

Which of the following is an effective treatment for dry mouth in older adults?

A) Increasing sugar intake
B) Use of over-the-counter salivary substitutes
C) Eliminating fluoride use
D) Avoiding dental care

Answer 17

Correct answer: B) Use of over-the-counter salivary substitutes

Question 18

Which periodontal condition is reversible with good oral hygiene and regular dental care?

A) Gingivitis
B) Periodontitis
C) Edentulism
D) Root caries

Answer 18

Correct answer: A) Gingivitis

Question 19

Why are regular dental exams essential for older adults, even if they do not experience pain?

A) Tooth decay in older adults is always painful
B) Age-related changes reduce sensitivity, so dental issues may go unnoticed until advanced
C) Dental exams are only necessary for younger patients
D) Pain is the only indicator of dental problems in older adults

Answer 19

Correct answer: B) Age-related changes reduce sensitivity, so dental issues may go unnoticed until advanced

Question 20

What is a common reason older adults are more likely to develop root caries?

A) Increased tooth sensitivity
B) Recurrent bacterial infections
C) Reduced salivary flow and diminished sensitivity to pain
D) Frequent consumption of acidic foods

Answer 20

Correct answer: C) Reduced salivary flow and diminished sensitivity to pain

Question 21

What role does saliva play in the prevention of dental decay?

A) It increases tooth sensitivity
B) It helps neutralize acids and prevent demineralization
C) It accelerates plaque formation
D) It causes the enamel to harden and break

Answer 21

Correct answer: B) It helps neutralize acids and prevent demineralization

Question 22

Which of the following is a modifiable risk factor for developing periodontitis in older adults?

A) Ethnicity
B) Smoking
C) Age
D) Genetic predisposition

Answer 22

Correct answer: B) Smoking

Question 23

Why is it important for older adults to limit their sugar intake at night?

A) Sugar consumption increases saliva production
B) Sugar accelerates enamel hardening
C) Sugar sticks to the teeth, causing demineralization during the night
D) Sugar intake is unrelated to dental health at night

Answer 23

Correct answer: C) Sugar sticks to the teeth, causing demineralization during the night

Question 24

What is a common **systemic condition** associated with poor oral hygiene and periodontitis in older adults? A) Hypotension B) Diabetes C) Cataracts D) Arthritis

Answer 24

Correct answer: B) Diabetes

Question 25

Which of the following is a common **complication of advanced dental decay** in older adults? A) Increased saliva production B) Tooth necrosis and formation of dental abscesses C) Reduced risk of oral infections D) Strengthening of tooth enamel

Answer 25

Correct answer: B) Tooth necrosis and formation of dental abscesses

Question 26

Why are older adults at a higher risk for **metastatic infections** related to dental issues? A) They have stronger immune systems B) They are more likely to have frequent dental cleanings C) They may experience delayed diagnosis due to diminished tooth sensitivity D) Their teeth become resistant to bacterial infections with age

Answer 26

Correct answer: C) They may experience delayed diagnosis due to diminished tooth sensitivity

Question 27

Which of the following best describes the **effects of aging on salivary glands** in older adults? A) Salivary glands increase production as people age B) Fatty replacement of acini reduces salivary flow, leading to dry mouth C) Salivary gland function is unaffected by aging D) Aging leads to an overproduction of saliva

Answer 27

Correct answer: B) Fatty replacement of acini reduces salivary flow, leading to dry mouth

Question 28

How can **fluoride toothpaste** help prevent dental decay in older adults? A) By increasing tooth sensitivity B) By remineralizing the tooth enamel and strengthening it C) By softening the tooth enamel D) By delaying the need for dentures

Answer 28

Correct answer: B) By remineralizing the tooth enamel and strengthening it

Question 29

Which oral condition involves **white patches on the mucous membranes and is a potential precursor to oral cancer? A) Erythroplakia B) Leukoplakia C) Periodontitis D) Edentulism

Answer 29

Correct answer: B) Leukoplakia

Question 30

What should patients with **dentures** be advised to do for proper maintenance? A) Wear dentures continuously without removing them B) Remove and clean dentures after meals and soak them in disinfectant regularly C) Clean dentures once a month D) Only remove dentures when visiting the dentist

Answer 30

Correct answer:* B) Remove and clean dentures after meals and soak them in disinfectant regularly

Question 31

Mrs. Thompson, a 78-year-old woman, comes to the clinic complaining that her teeth feel weak and brittle. Upon examination, her dentist notes that her dentin has thickened, and she has a reduced sensitivity to pain. She hasn't had any recent dental visits because she didn't experience any pain. Question: What is the most likely cause of Mrs. Thompson's weakened teeth? A) Increased permeability of the dentin B) Age-related thickening of the dentin and reduced sensitivity C) Decreased tooth enamel from fluoride treatments D) Overuse of her dentures

Answer 31

Correct answer:* B) Age-related thickening of the dentin and reduced sensitivity

Question 32

Mr. Johnson, a 75-year-old man with a history of smoking, complains of bleeding gums and bad breath. His dentist diagnoses him with periodontitis and explains that his condition could worsen without proper care. **Question:** What risk factor likely contributed to Mr. Johnson's periodontitis? A) His high sugar diet B) His smoking habit C) His use of fluoride toothpaste D) His frequent dental visits

Answer 32

Correct answer:* B) His smoking habit

Question 33

Mrs. Clark, an 82-year-old woman, has lost several teeth due to untreated decay. She now struggles with chewing her food, which has led to poor nutrition. Her dentist recommends dentures to improve her ability to eat and restore her facial appearance. **Question:** What benefit will dentures provide for Mrs. Clark? A) They will eliminate the need for dental hygiene B) They will restore her ability to chew food and improve her nutrition C) They will prevent all future tooth decay D) They will automatically adjust to changes in her gum structure

Answer 33

Correct answer: B) They will restore her ability to chew food and improve her nutrition

Question 34

Mr. Lee, a 76-year-old man, complains of a dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. He has been on multiple medications for hypertension and allergies. His dentist suspects that his medications may be contributing to his dry mouth. **Question:** What class of medications is most likely causing Mr. Lee's dry mouth? A) Antibiotics B) Anticholinergics C) Antivirals D) Antifungals

Answer 34

Correct answer: B) Anticholinergics

Question 35

Ms. Rodriguez, an 80-year-old woman, has dentures that she has not cleaned regularly. She reports that her dentures feel loose and cause irritation. During the examination, the dentist notices sore spots in her mouth caused by the ill-fitting dentures. **Question:** What advice should Ms. Rodriguez receive regarding denture care? A) Clean her dentures once a month B) Remove and clean her dentures after meals and soak them regularly in disinfectant C) Wear her dentures continuously to prevent sore spots D) Only remove her dentures if they feel uncomfortable

Answer 35

Correct answer: B) Remove and clean her dentures after meals and soak them regularly in disinfectant

Question 36

Mr. Green, a 79-year-old man, has a long history of diabetes and has noticed that his gums are receding and bleeding when he brushes his teeth. His dentist diagnoses him with gingivitis and explains that his diabetes may be contributing to his gum disease. **Question:** How is Mr. Green’s diabetes likely affecting his oral health? A) It increases his ability to fight infections B) It increases his risk of periodontal disease due to impaired wound healing C) It decreases his need for regular dental cleanings D) It strengthens his gums and teeth

Answer 36

Correct answer:* B) It increases his risk of periodontal disease due to impaired wound healing

Question 37

Mrs. Brown, a 74-year-old woman, notices a red patch under her tongue that hasn't healed in several weeks. She reports no pain. Upon examination, her dentist is concerned about the possibility of erythroplakia. **Question:** What is the dentist’s primary concern regarding the red patch under Mrs. Brown’s tongue? A) It is a common sign of gingivitis B) It could be a precancerous lesion requiring a biopsy C) It indicates a minor dental infection D) It is likely a benign ulcer that will heal on its own

Answer 37

Correct answer: B) It could be a precancerous lesion requiring a biopsy

Question 38

Mr. Taylor, a 77-year-old man with hypertension, notices that his mouth feels constantly dry, which has affected his ability to eat and speak. His medications include an antihypertensive and a diuretic. **Question:** What might be causing Mr. Taylor’s dry mouth, and how should it be managed? A) His diuretic medication is likely causing dry mouth; over-the-counter salivary substitutes or oral lubricants may provide relief B) His high blood pressure is causing dry mouth; stopping his antihypertensive medication will resolve the issue C) His diet is causing dry mouth; eating more sugar will stimulate salivary production D) His dry mouth is normal for his age; no treatment is necessary

Answer 38

Correct answer: A) His diuretic medication is likely causing dry mouth; over-the-counter salivary substitutes or oral lubricants may provide relief

Question 39

Ms. Evans, an 85-year-old woman, has squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth. She is undergoing treatment but wonders what might have contributed to her developing this condition. **Question:** Which of the following is a known risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth in older adults? A) Frequent use of dental floss B) Use of tobacco products C) Drinking only fluoridated water D) Avoiding sugary foods

Answer 39

Correct answer:* B) Use of tobacco products

Question 40

Mr. Stevens, a 72-year-old man with a history of poor oral hygiene, has been diagnosed with advanced periodontitis. His dentist explains that bacteria from his mouth could potentially travel to other parts of his body and cause complications. Question: Which of the following complications can occur due to untreated periodontitis? A) Joint infections and pneumonia B) Increased tooth sensitivity C) Improved immune response D) Hardened tooth enamel

Answer 40

Correct answer:* A) Joint infections and pneumonia

Question 41

Mrs. Wilson, a 79-year-old woman, has been experiencing issues with tooth decay despite using fluoride toothpaste daily. Upon examination, her dentist finds that she has multiple cavities and diminished salivary flow. Mrs. Wilson also admits to eating sugary snacks at night without brushing afterward. **Question:** What is the most likely cause of Mrs. Wilson’s continued tooth decay? A) Using too much fluoride toothpaste B) Eating sugary foods at night without brushing C) Drinking too much water D) Overuse of dental floss

Answer 41

Correct answer:* B) Eating sugary foods at night without brushing

Question 42

Mr. Roberts, an 80-year-old man, comes to the dentist with complaints of loose teeth and bleeding gums. He has a long history of smoking and has not seen a dentist in several years. His dentist diagnoses him with advanced periodontitis and explains that the condition is irreversible. **Question:** What is a key factor in Mr. Roberts’ development of advanced periodontitis? A) His use of fluoride toothpaste B) His lack of regular dental care and smoking habit C) His frequent use of mouthwash D) His consumption of sugary foods

Answer 42

Correct answer:* B) His lack of regular dental care and smoking habit

Question 43

Ms. Patterson, an 81-year-old woman, has had a dry mouth since undergoing radiation therapy for cancer. She reports difficulty speaking and swallowing. Her dentist suggests using oral lubricants and avoiding certain medications that may worsen her dry mouth. **Question:** Which treatment may be most effective in managing Ms. Patterson’s dry mouth? A) Reducing her water intake B) Using oral lubricants and over-the-counter salivary substitutes C) Consuming more sugary drinks D) Avoiding all medications

Answer 43

Correct answer:* B) Using oral lubricants and over-the-counter salivary substitutes

Question 44

Mr. Jackson, a 76-year-old man, has not had dental care in years due to limited mobility. He has noticed several missing teeth and difficulty chewing his food. His dentist recommends dentures to restore his ability to eat properly and prevent malnutrition. **Question:** What benefit will dentures provide Mr. Jackson? A) They will prevent all future dental problems B) They will restore his ability to chew food and improve his nutritional intake C) They will increase his salivary flow D) They will reduce the need for regular dental care

Answer 44

Correct answer:* B) They will restore his ability to chew food and improve his nutritional intake

Question 45

What is **leukoplakia**? A) A benign condition involving red patches in the mouth B) A white patch on the mucous membranes that can be a precursor to oral cancer C) A form of oral thrush caused by fungal infection D) A common lesion that disappears without treatment

Answer 45

Correct answer:* B) A white patch on the mucous membranes that can be a precursor to oral cancer

Question 45

Ms. Clark, a 77-year-old woman, has noticed white patches on the inside of her cheeks. Her dentist examines her and diagnoses her with leukoplakia. He explains that these patches need to be monitored closely as they can be precancerous. What is the significance of detecting leukoplakia in Ms. Clark’s mouth? A) It is a benign condition that requires no further follow-up B) It is a sign of advanced periodontal disease C) It is a precancerous condition that requires monitoring and possible biopsy D) It indicates the presence of a dental infection

Answer 45

Correct answer: C) It is a precancerous condition that requires monitoring and possible biopsy

Question 46

What is erythroplakia? A) A white patch in the mouth that is often benign B) A red lesion in the mouth that has a high risk of malignancy C) A harmless sore caused by irritation D) A yellow patch in the mouth related to fungal infections

Answer 46

B) A red lesion in the mouth that has a high risk of malignancy

Question 47

Which of the following oral lesions has the highest risk** of becoming cancerous? A) Leukoplakia B) Erythroplakia C) Oral candidiasis D) Aphthous ulcers

Answer 47

Correct answer: B) Erythroplakia

Question 48

Which of the following is a common risk factor for both leukoplakia and erythroplakia? A) High sugar intake B) Smoking and alcohol use C) Poor dental hygiene D) Consumption of fluoride

Answer 48

Correct answer: B) Smoking and alcohol use

Question 49

Oral lesions such as leukoplakia and erythroplakia should be: A) Monitored and biopsied if they do not resolve within two weeks B) Treated with antibiotics immediately C) Scraped off during regular dental cleaning D) Left untreated unless painful

Answer 49

Correct answer: A) Monitored and biopsied if they do not resolve within two weeks

Question 50

Which oral lesion presents as white plaques that can be scraped off, often associated with a fungal infection? A) Leukoplakia B) Oral candidiasis (thrush) C) Erythroplakia D) Aphthous ulcer

Answer 50

*Correct answer:* B) Oral candidiasis (thrush)

Question 51

Oral candidiasis is most commonly caused by: A) Bacterial infection B) Viral infection C) Fungal infection (Candida species) D) Autoimmune disorder

Answer 51

C) Fungal infection (Candida species)

Question 52

What is a **common risk factor** for developing oral candidiasis in older adults? A) Use of antibiotics or immunosuppressive medications B) Drinking fluoridated water C) Use of antacids D) Increased intake of sugary foods

Answer 52

A) Use of antibiotics or immunosuppressive medications

Question 53

How can oral candidiasis be distinguished from leukoplakia? A) Oral candidiasis cannot be scraped off, while leukoplakia can B) Leukoplakia can be scraped off, while oral candidiasis cannot C) Oral candidiasis can be scraped off, leaving a red base, while leukoplakia cannot D) Both conditions can be scraped off easily

Answer 53

C) Oral candidiasis can be scraped off, leaving a red base, while leukoplakia cannot

Question 53

A biopsy is recommended for oral lesions such as leukoplakia or erythroplakia because: A) They are always cancerous B) They are precancerous lesions with potential for malignant transformation C) They are easily treated with over-the-counter medications D) They are symptoms of gum disease

Answer 53

B) They are precancerous lesions with potential for malignant transformation

Question 54

Squamous cell carcinoma** of the mouth is most often associated with: A) Erythroplakia and leukoplakia B) Gingivitis and periodontitis C) Canker sores and cold sores D) Dental caries and root canals

Answer 54

Correct answer:* A) Erythroplakia and leukoplakia

Question 55

Which of the following is a common **precursor lesion** for oral squamous cell carcinoma? A) Oral thrush B) Leukoplakia C) Aphthous ulcer D) Halitosis

Answer 55

B) Leukoplakia

Question 56

What is the most common **appearance of erythroplakia**? A) White patches with a rough texture B) Bright red patches that are smooth and velvety C) Yellow patches that are painful D) Dark brown patches with raised edges

Answer 56

B) Bright red patches that are smooth and velvety

Question 57

Which of the following is a common cause of **recurrent aphthous ulcers** (canker sores)? A) Viral infection B) Mechanical trauma, stress, or nutritional deficiencies C) Chronic use of fluoride toothpaste D) Smoking and alcohol use

Answer 57

Correct answer: B) Mechanical trauma, stress, or nutritional deficiencies

Question 58

What is a key characteristic of **oral thrush**? A) Red patches in the mouth that bleed when touched B) White plaques that can be scraped off, leaving a red base C) Smooth, painless, white lesions D) Yellow crusting along the gum line

Answer 58

Correct answer: B) White plaques that can be scraped off, leaving a red base

Question 59

Which of the following patient behaviors is most likely to increase the risk of **oral cancer**? A) Drinking coffee B) Smoking and excessive alcohol use C) Using fluoride toothpaste D) Drinking tea regularly

Answer 59

Correct answer:* B) Smoking and excessive alcohol use

Question 60

Which oral lesion is associated with immunosuppression and can be commonly seen in patients with HIV/AIDS? A) Leukoplakia B) Oral candidiasis C) Erythroplakia D) Aphthous ulcers

Answer 60

Correct answer: B) Oral candidiasis

Question 61

When should an **oral lesion** such as erythroplakia be considered an emergency? A) If it is painful B) If it has been present for more than two weeks without healing C) If it bleeds easily D) If it appears suddenly after a dental cleaning

Answer 61

*Correct answer:* B) If it has been present for more than two weeks without healing

Question 62

Leukoplakia should be monitored closely because: A) It resolves on its own without treatment B) It is a sign of an oral fungal infection C) It can be a precancerous lesion with potential for malignant transformation D) It is a symptom of periodontal disease

Answer 62

C) It can be a precancerous lesion with potential for malignant transformation

Question 63

What is the most appropriate treatment for oral candidiasis in older adults? A) Surgical removal of the lesion B) Antifungal medications such as nystatin or fluconazole C) Antibiotics to reduce bacterial growth D) Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation

Answer 63

B) Antifungal medications such as nystatin or fluconazole

Question 64

Which of the following age-related changes in the tooth dentin is most commonly observed in older adults? A) Increased permeability B) Decreased thickness C) Increased thickness, reducing space for the pulp D) Increased sensitivity to pain

Answer 64

C) Increased thickness, reducing space for the pulp

Question 65

What is the primary risk factor for dental decay in older adults? A) High fluoride exposure B) Reduced salivary flow C) Frequent dental cleanings D) Increased tooth sensitivity

Answer 65

B) Reduced salivary flow

Question 66

Which of the following bacteria are primarily responsible for periodontitis? A) Streptococcus mutans B) Lactobacillus C) Plaque-forming bacteria D) Viruses causing cold sores

Answer 66

C) Plaque-forming bacteria

Question 67

Why is it important for older adults to continue seeing a dentist even when they are not experiencing pain? A) Pain is a reliable indicator of dental problems B) Age-related changes reduce sensitivity, and dental issues may progress unnoticed C) Teeth become more resistant to decay as people age D) Dental care is less important for older adults

Answer 67

B) Age-related changes reduce sensitivity, and dental issues may progress unnoticed

Question 68

Which condition does edentulism refer to? A) Gum inflammation B) Loss of all teeth C) Decay of the tooth enamel D) Gum infection

Answer 68

B) Loss of all teeth

Question 69

Which of the following is an irreversible condition involving the destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone? A) Gingivitis B) Periodontitis C) Dental caries D) Leukoplakia

Answer 69

B) Periodontitis

Question 69

Which medications are most commonly associated with causing dry mouth in older adults? A) Antibiotics B) Anticholinergics C) Antivirals D) Antifungals

Answer 69

B) Anticholinergics

Question 70

What is a common **benefit of dentures** for older adults? A) They eliminate the need for oral hygiene B) They restore chewing ability and improve nutrition C) They permanently replace natural teeth D) They prevent all future dental issues

Answer 70

B) They restore chewing ability and improve nutrition

Question 71

What is the primary reason for recommending **regular dental exams** even for older adults who don’t feel pain? A) To detect age-related changes that reduce sensitivity and allow decay to progress unnoticed B) To reduce the number of dental visits needed C) To identify minor discomfort that is common in older adults D) To encourage the use of dentures

Answer 71

A) To detect age-related changes that reduce sensitivity and allow decay to progress unnotice

Question 72

How does **fluoride toothpaste** help older adults prevent tooth decay? A) By reducing sensitivity B) By remineralizing the tooth enamel and strengthening it C) By whitening the teeth D) By softening the enamel

Answer 72

B) By remineralizing the tooth enamel and strengthening it

Question 73

What is the primary cause of **tooth decay** in older adults who experience reduced salivary flow? A) Reduced enamel thickness B) Bacterial demineralization of the teeth C) Overuse of fluoride toothpaste D) Poor gum health

Answer 73

B) Bacterial demineralization of the teeth

Question 73

What is the role of **saliva** in maintaining oral health? A) It increases tooth sensitivity B) It neutralizes acids and helps prevent tooth decay C) It contributes to plaque buildup D) It causes tooth enamel to erode

Answer 73

B) It neutralizes acids and helps prevent tooth decay

Question 74

Which oral condition is characterized by **white patches** on the mucous membranes and is a potential precursor to oral cancer? A) Erythroplakia B) Leukoplakia C) Gingivitis D) Periodontitis

Answer 74

B) Leukoplakia

Question 75

Which of the following factors most commonly contributes to periodontitis in older adults? A) Frequent dental cleanings B) Smoking and poor oral hygiene C) Overuse of dental floss D) High sugar intake

Answer 75

B) Smoking and poor oral hygiene

Question 76

Which condition is **reversible** with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care? A) Gingivitis B) Periodontitis C) Root caries D) Edentulism

Answer 76

Correct answer:* A) Gingivitis

Question 77

Which of the following treatments is most effective for **advanced dental decay** involving the dental pulp? A) Tooth extraction or root canal B) Fluoride toothpaste C) Temporary filling D) Application of mouthwash

Answer 77

A) Tooth extraction or root canal

Question 78

Which systemic condition is commonly associated with **poorly managed oral hygiene** and **periodontitis** in older adults? A) Arthritis B) Diabetes C) Hypotension D) Asthma

Answer 78

B) Diabetes

Question 79

Which of the following dental conditions in older adults increases the risk of **aspiration** and **malnutrition**? A) Gingivitis B) Edentulism without prosthetic replacement C) Periodontitis D) Root caries

Answer 79

B) Edentulism without prosthetic replacement

Question 80

Why are **antibiotics prescribed** before dental procedures for older adults with joint replacements? A) To strengthen tooth enamel B) To prevent joint infections caused by bacteria in the mouth C) To reduce tooth sensitivity D) To clean the oral cavity before surgery

Answer 80

B) To prevent joint infections caused by bacteria in the mouth

Question 81

Which of the following is a preventive measure that helps reduce root caries** in older adults? A) Avoiding sugary foods, especially at night B) Drinking only fluoridated water C) Using mouthwash after every meal D) Avoiding dental visits

Answer 81

A) Avoiding sugary foods, especially at night