DMD Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield DMD facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A radiolucent halo surrounding the apex of a non-vital tooth on a periapical radiograph is most consistent with which diagnosis? → Periapical abscess or granuloma
2. Which radiographic landmark appears as a radiopaque bow-shaped line above the roots of the maxillary posterior teeth on a periapical radiograph? → Floor of the maxillary sinus
3. What is the purpose of fluoride treatments in dentistry? → To strengthen enamel and prevent decay
4. What is the primary function of the oral cavity? → To initiate digestion and facilitate speech
5. The ANB angle in cephalometric analysis directly represents which skeletal relationship? → Anteroposterior relationship between the maxilla and mandible
6. What should be considered when creating a treatment plan? → The patient's preferences, health status, budget, and risks
7. Which space maintainer is indicated after premature loss of a mandibular primary first molar when the second primary molar is still present? → Band-and-loop appliance
8. In orthodontic treatment planning, which factor most strongly contraindicates the use of functional appliances for skeletal correction? → Completion of skeletal growth (closed epiphyses, stable cephalometrics)
9. Which type of orthodontic force is most effective for producing physiologic tooth movement without causing hyalinization of the periodontal ligament? → Light continuous forces within the range of capillary blood pressure
10. Which part of the tooth is responsible for sensation? → Pulp
11. A child with Down syndrome is most likely to exhibit which dental finding? → Delayed eruption and hypodontia
12. A child presents with multiple small, shallow ulcers on the labial and buccal mucosa with a prodrome of fever and malaise. What is the most likely diagnosis? → Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis
13. What is a common material used for dental crowns? → Porcelain, metal, or porcelain-metal combination
14. The Hyrax rapid palatal expander achieves skeletal expansion of the maxilla primarily through which mechanism? → Opening of the midpalatal suture to produce true skeletal widening
15. Which of the following best describes the primary post-eruptive mechanism by which topical fluoride inhibits the caries process? → It enhances remineralization by forming less acid-soluble fluorapatite.
16. At what age do the primary (deciduous) mandibular central incisors typically erupt? → 6–10 months
17. What is the role of dental sealants? → To protect molars from cavities
18. Which topical fluoride product has the highest concentration and requires professional application? → 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel
19. The Frankfort horizontal plane used in cephalometric analysis is constructed by connecting which two landmarks? → Porion and Orbitale
20. What is the role of dental implants? → To replace missing teeth with a post and crown
21. Which local anesthetic is contraindicated in children under 4 years of age due to risk of methemoglobinemia? → Prilocaine
22. What is the primary function of the incisors? → Cutting food
23. Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen in managing dental pain? → Inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis.
24. Why is it important to document all aspects of patient care? → To provide a legal and medical record of treatment
25. Which intraoral radiographic view is best for evaluating the palate, floor of the mouth, or detecting salivary stones? → Occlusal radiograph
26. What should be considered when choosing a dental treatment material? → Durability, biocompatibility, cost, and patient preferences
27. What is the importance of patient education in treatment planning? → To ensure patient compliance and informed decision-making
28. Why is it important to monitor a patient's progress during treatment? → To ensure the treatment is progressing as planned
29. In orthodontic mechanics, 'anchorage' is best defined as: → Resistance to unwanted or reactive tooth movement
30. Stainless steel crowns are the preferred restoration for primary molars with which condition? → Extensive caries involving multiple surfaces