Free practice test

Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Check what you know about the dental hygienist job with 15 free questions and instant explanations.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
About this practice test

15 multiple-choice questions on dental hygienist knowledge, safety and vocabulary. Submit to see your score and explanations, or open any question’s answer as you go. Nothing is saved or shared.

Question 1 of 15How many sites per tooth are measured in full periodontal charting?
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Answer: Six. Six sites per tooth are measured.

Question 2 of 15Calculus is:
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Answer: Hardened plaque. Calculus, or tartar, is mineralized plaque.

Question 3 of 15Which X-ray best shows decay between back teeth?
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Answer: Bitewing. Bitewings show the crowns and contacts of back teeth.

Question 4 of 15Which exam is required for licensure in most states?
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Answer: NBDHE. The National Board Dental Hygiene Examination is the written exam.

Question 5 of 15Gingivitis is:
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Answer: Reversible gum inflammation. Gingivitis is gum inflammation that is often reversible.

Question 6 of 15Which term matches this definition: “A preventive cleaning of the teeth.”
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Answer: Prophylaxis. Prophylaxis: A preventive cleaning of the teeth.

Question 7 of 15What does “Recall” mean?
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Answer: A routine check-up and cleaning appointment.. Recall: A routine check-up and cleaning appointment.

Question 8 of 15Which term matches this definition: “Recording pocket depths, bleeding and gum recession for each tooth.”
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Answer: Periodontal charting. Periodontal charting: Recording pocket depths, bleeding and gum recession for each tooth.

Question 9 of 15What does “Bitewings” mean?
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Answer: X-rays that show the crowns of upper and lower back teeth.. Bitewings: X-rays that show the crowns of upper and lower back teeth.

Question 10 of 15Which term matches this definition: “Inflammation of the gums, often reversible.”
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Answer: Gingivitis. Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums, often reversible.

Question 11 of 15What does “Pocket depth” mean?
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Answer: The depth of the space between the gum and tooth, measured with a probe.. Pocket depth: The depth of the space between the gum and tooth, measured with a probe.

Question 12 of 15Which term matches this definition: “Hardened plaque, also called tartar.”
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Answer: Calculus. Calculus: Hardened plaque, also called tartar.

Question 13 of 15What does “Sealant” mean?
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Answer: A plastic coating painted on molars to prevent cavities.. Sealant: A plastic coating painted on molars to prevent cavities.

Question 14 of 15Which term matches this definition: “A visual and physical check of the mouth, tongue and neck for abnormalities.”
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Answer: Oral cancer screening. Oral cancer screening: A visual and physical check of the mouth, tongue and neck for abnormalities.

Question 15 of 15What does “Fluoride varnish” mean?
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Answer: A protective coating that strengthens enamel.. Fluoride varnish: A protective coating that strengthens enamel.

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