Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What type of dental procedure involves removing calculus and debris from the roots of the teeth?

1. Pulp therapy

2. Scaling and root planing

3. Prophylaxis

4. Fluoride varnish application

The correct answer is: Scaling and root planing

The procedure that involves removing calculus and debris from the roots of the teeth is known as scaling and root planing. This treatment is specifically designed to address periodontal disease by cleaning the tooth surfaces both above and below the gum line. During the process, calculus and plaque are physically removed from the root surfaces, which helps to eliminate inflammation and promote healing of the gums. Scaling and root planing also smooths the tooth roots, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere and form further plaque. This thorough cleaning is often necessary for patients suffering from gum disease, where typical cleaning methods may not suffice to restore gum health. While pulp therapy focuses on treating issues within the inner structures of the tooth, prophylaxis is a preventive procedure that typically involves cleaning above the gum line. The application of fluoride varnish is a preventive measure aimed at strengthening enamel and preventing decay but does not involve the cleaning of roots or treatment of periodontal disease. Thus, the appropriate choice for the cleaning of root surfaces is scaling and root planing.