Assistant Certification Examination

Illinois Expanded Functions Dental Assistant Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of performing coronal polishing?
• Remove calculus deposits
• Remove extrinsic stains and plaque
• Remove intrinsic stains
• Whiten the teeth

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Coronal polishing removes soft deposits and extrinsic stains, not

calculus or intrinsic discoloration.

• Which material is most commonly used for pit and fissure sealants? 1 / 4

• Glass ionomer cement
• Polycarboxylate
• Amalgam
• Resin-based composite

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Resin-based composites provide strong, durable sealant

protection for pits and fissures.

3. Before placing a dental sealant, the tooth must be:

• Left moist
• Contaminated with saliva
• Thoroughly dried
• Warmed with air

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sealants require a completely dry field to ensure proper

retention and polymerization.

4. Etchant used before sealant placement typically contains:

• 10–30% phosphoric acid
• 1–2% sodium fluoride
• Calcium hydroxide
• Zinc oxide 2 / 4

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Phosphoric acid etches enamel to increase surface area and

improve sealant bonding.

5. When placing a temporary restoration, a dental assistant must ensure:

• Occlusion is intentionally high
• Restoration seals the preparation
• Margins are left open
• Material is placed without shaping

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A temporary restoration must protect the tooth by sealing

margins until the permanent restoration is placed.

• What is the typical curing time for light-cured composite?
• 2–3 seconds
• 5–10 seconds
• 20–40 seconds
• 60–90 seconds

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Most light-cured composites set within 20–40 seconds

depending on layer thickness.

• / 4

• Which impression material is most accurate for crown and bridge

procedures?

• Alginate
• Polyether
• Compound
• Impression plaster

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Polyether materials provide excellent detail and dimensional

stability for fixed prosthodontics.

8. A matrix band is used to:

• Support tooth eruption
• Replace missing tooth structure during restoration
• Seal pits and fissures
• Remove stains

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Matrix bands provide a temporary wall for placing restorations

in class II preparations.

9. The wedge in a class II restoration serves to:

• Create occlusion
• Stabilize the matrix band
• / 4