Dental materials: amalgam: practice question

A Dentistry question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

Try it

Dentistry · Dental materials: amalgam

Sample item

Why is a matrix band used when restoring a proximal surface of a posterior tooth?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Recreate a temporary wall and proximal contact contour

A matrix band provides a temporary external wall so restorative material can be shaped into a proper proximal contour and contact. Wedges help adapt the band cervically and separate teeth slightly.

Option by option

  • A. Etch enamel chemically

    Acid etching is a separate adhesive procedure.

  • B. Measure occlusal force

    Occlusal force is assessed by other clinical methods.

  • C. Recreate a temporary wall and proximal contact contour (correct)

    Correct. Matrix systems form the missing proximal wall during restoration.

  • D. Increase pulp vitality

    Pulp vitality is not increased by a matrix band.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Dentistry questions

Questions about this Dentistry question

What is the answer to this Dentistry question?

The best answer is C, Recreate a temporary wall and proximal contact contour. A matrix band provides a temporary external wall so restorative material can be shaped into a proper proximal contour and contact.

Why is "Etch enamel chemically" not the answer?

Acid etching is a separate adhesive procedure.

Why is "Measure occlusal force" not the answer?

Occlusal force is assessed by other clinical methods.

Why is "Increase pulp vitality" not the answer?

Pulp vitality is not increased by a matrix band.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Dental materials: amalgam in Dentistry. Wedges help adapt the band cervically and separate teeth slightly.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Dental materials: amalgam?

Learn the dental formula, eruption ages and tooth structure once, as tables. Then use the flashcards and the other Dentistry questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.