HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

What is the correct term for the dental material used to fill small cavities?

1. Amalgam

2. Cement

3. Composites

4. Glass Ionomer

The correct answer is: Composites

The correct term for the dental material used to fill small cavities is composites. Composites are tooth-colored materials made of a resin and finely ground glass or quartz particles, making them aesthetically appealing for use in visible areas of the mouth. They bond well to the tooth structure and can be easily manipulated to match the shade of the surrounding teeth, providing a more natural appearance compared to other filling materials. Composites are particularly favored for smaller cavities or those in areas of the mouth that are less subject to heavy chewing forces. Their versatility allows them to be used not only for fillings but also for repairing chips and altering the shape of teeth. Amalgam, while also a common filling material known for its durability and strength, is typically used for larger cavities or in posterior teeth due to its metallic appearance. Cement is a material used for temporary restorations or luting crowns but is not ideal for filling cavities. Glass Ionomer is another type of dental material with properties that allow it to bond chemically to tooth structure and release fluoride, but it is generally not used exclusively for small cavities compared to composites.