Coronal Polish Certification Practice Test

When should teeth be disclosed for assessment?

1. Before tooth extraction

2. Immediately after dental cleaning

3. Prior to prophy and after prophy

4. When symptoms of decay are present

The correct answer is: Prior to prophy and after prophy

Teeth should be disclosed for assessment prior to prophylaxis and after prophylaxis to evaluate the presence of plaque or other deposits on the teeth. Disclosing agents highlight areas of plaque accumulation, enabling effective assessment of a patient's oral hygiene. By using the disclosing solution before the prophylactic cleaning, a dental hygienist can identify specific areas where the patient may need additional instruction on brushing and flossing techniques. Following prophylaxis, the disclosing solution helps assess the effectiveness of the cleaning, ensuring that all plaque has been removed and that the patient maintains optimal oral hygiene. Other options, such as disclosing before tooth extraction or when decay symptoms are present, do not serve the same purpose of improving preventive care and education for the patient's ongoing oral health. Disclosing teeth after dental cleaning might not provide full insight into the initial plaque status and therefore misses the educational component crucial for dental hygiene.