HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

In what way does conditioning alter the surface of a tooth?

1. It brightens the tooth

2. It makes the tooth opaque

3. It creates a surface that is microscopically porous

4. It strengthens the enamel

The correct answer is: It creates a surface that is microscopically porous

Conditioning alters the surface of a tooth by creating a microscopically porous structure. This process is essential in dentistry, particularly when preparing a tooth for restorative procedures such as bonding or applying sealants. Conditioning typically involves the use of acidic solutions that demineralize the outer layer of the enamel, leading to the formation of microscopic pores. These pores increase the surface area and enable better mechanical retention of dental materials, such as adhesives and composites, thereby enhancing the bond strength. This alteration in the tooth's surface permits more effective adhesion of materials used in restorative and preventive treatments. It is crucial for ensuring that dental adhesives penetrate adequately into the tooth structure, resulting in a durable and long-lasting bond. This process contrasts with other choices, which do not accurately represent the effects of conditioning on dental surfaces. For example, while conditioning can improve the adhesion of materials, it does not inherently brighten the tooth or make it opaque; instead, these are related to color modification techniques or other treatments not linked to conditioning itself.