National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

If a patient has supragingival calculus covering more than 1/3 but less than 2/3 of the exposed teeth, what calculus rating should the hygienist assign?

1. 1

2. 2

3. 3

4. 4

The correct answer is: 2

The calculus rating is a way to categorize the amount of supragingival calculus present on the teeth, which helps in determining the appropriate treatment and degree of cleaning needed for the patient. When supragingival calculus covers more than one-third but less than two-thirds of the exposed teeth, the scenario fits the designated criteria for a rating of 2. This rating indicates a moderate amount of calculus present on the teeth, reflecting a level of oral hygiene that may require more intensive periodontal care and professional cleaning. A calculus rating of 2 helps the dental hygienist to plan for the appropriate scaling and prophylactic measures that will effectively address the calculus buildup, promoting better oral health outcomes for the patient. Understanding these categories is essential for accurate assessment and effective treatment planning in dental hygiene practice.