Compiled HOSA: Dental Science- Exam
Review *Q&A* (100% Correct) 2025/2026
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Syncope and fainting are common emergencies that can occur in a dental office. Why are these events so
prevalent, and how can dental professionals effectively manage them when they arise? Syncope
and fainting are common due to anxiety, pain, or a reaction to medication, and should be managed by
positioning the patient properly and ensuring they receive adequate oxygen.
What treatment is most commonly used to address an allergic reaction, such as an allergy attack, in a
healthcare setting? Antihistamines are typically used to treat allergy attacks by blocking the
effects of histamines, reducing symptoms like swelling and itching.
The method used to administer asthma medication can vary, but which device is generally considered
the most effective for delivering the medication directly to the lungs? An inhaler is the preferred
method for delivering asthma medication, allowing for quick relief of symptoms.
If someone begins hyperventilating, it’s important to manage their breathing to prevent further
complications. What is the recommended technique to assist someone who is hyperventilating, and how
does it help? Instructing the patient to breathe into a paper bag or cupped hands helps them
regain control of their breathing, which can reduce symptoms of hyperventilation.
Dilantin is commonly used for treating epilepsy. What side effect of this medication should dental
professionals be aware of, and why is it important to monitor this effect in patients? Dilantin can
cause overgrowth of gingival tissue, which may require special dental care to prevent complications such
as gum disease.
Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. What is the result of insufficient
insulin production, and how does it impact the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar? Diabetes
results when the pancreas produces too little insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and potential
complications if not managed properly.
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,Oral hyperglycemics are prescribed for individuals with diabetes. What is the primary purpose of these
medications, and how do they help manage the condition? Oral hyperglycemics are medications
designed to lower blood sugar levels, helping people with diabetes maintain stable glucose levels.
Congestive heart failure is a condition that affects the heart’s ability to function properly. What happens
in congestive heart failure, and what are the potential long-term effects of this condition?
Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to
fluid buildup and potential organ damage if left untreated.
A fistula is a medical term used to describe a specific condition. What is a fistula, and what role does it
play in facilitating the drainage of fluids from the body? A fistula is a tubelike passage with an
opening that allows fluids to drain from one area of the body to another.
A proper sitting posture is essential for dental assistants to maintain comfort and efficiency. Where
should the feet of a properly seated assistant be placed, and why is this important for ergonomics?
The assistant’s feet should be flat on the foot ring or base, promoting stability and reducing strain
on the lower back and legs.
When working with the evacuator tip in dental procedures, different grasps may be used. Which grasp
should be used when working on the anterior maxillary, and how does it help improve control and
precision? The pen grasp should be used, as it provides better control and precision when
handling the evacuator tip during anterior maxillary work.
The monangle is a term used in dental procedures. What does it refer to, and how is it applied in a
clinical setting? Monangle refers to a single angle, commonly used in dental handpieces to reach
specific areas during procedures.
Dental instruments like amalgam carvers are essential for shaping and refining fillings. What are two
common examples of amalgam carvers, and how are they used during dental procedures?
Hollenback and discoid-cleoid are examples of amalgam carvers, used to carve and shape dental
fillings to match the natural contours of teeth.
In dental procedures, different types of burs are used for specific tasks. What type of bur is used in the
contra-angle handpiece, and how does it differ from other types of burs? The latch-type shank bur
is used in the contra-angle handpiece, which allows for greater control and precision during procedures.
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, Sandpaper discs are used in various dental applications, especially for polishing and finishing. What are
some common examples of abrasives used in sandpaper discs, and what is their purpose in dental
procedures? Garnet, sand, emery, and cuttlefish are examples of abrasives used in sandpaper
discs to smooth and polish dental surfaces.
Anesthetic agents vary in duration, and knowing how long they last is important for effective pain
management. If an anesthetic is short-acting, how long can its effects be expected to last? A
short-duration anesthetic typically lasts for about 30 minutes, providing temporary pain relief for
procedures of limited duration.
A system that requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent contact with all bodily
fluids is referred to as the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (BSI). What is the primary purpose of this
system in a healthcare or dental setting? It ensures that PPE is worn to protect against contact
with bodily fluids.
An ultrasonic cleaner is an essential tool in dental and medical settings. How does this cleaning device
function to effectively remove debris from instruments, ensuring they are safe for use? It uses a
cavitation process, where ultrasonic waves create bubbles that remove dirt and debris from instruments.
Sterilization indicators play a crucial role in maintaining the safety of instruments and procedures. What
is their specific purpose in the sterilization process, particularly in relation to sterilizer and bag
management? Sterilization indicators help to ensure that bags are not overfilled, and sterilizers
are not overpacked, ensuring that sterilization conditions are met.
Which rooms and equipment are often overlooked when performing routine disinfecting in a healthcare
or dental office, despite being areas that can harbor contaminants? The radiography room,
radiography processing equipment, and dental laboratory are frequently neglected during disinfecting
routines.
The creation and use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are regulated by specific organizations.
Which organization mandates the requirement for MSDS in workplaces, and why is this necessary?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) mandates MSDS to ensure that employees are
informed about the hazards of chemicals used in the workplace.
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