DANB General Chairside Practice Test

A posterior tooth with a deep preparation may require what type of base for pulpal defense?

1. Protective liner

2. Restorative base

3. Insulating base

4. Aesthetic base

The correct answer is: Insulating base

In the context of a posterior tooth with a deep preparation, choosing an insulating base is appropriate as it serves a crucial role in protecting the pulp from thermal insults. When a tooth has a significant cavity or deep preparation, it can compromise the pulp’s health, making it more susceptible to thermal changes from food and beverages. An insulating base can help maintain a stable temperature in the region of the pulp, minimizing the risk of pulpitis or other complications. The insulating base also provides mechanical support and can reduce sensitivity, making it vital for situations where the dentin is exposed or has been significantly reduced. This base acts as a barrier, helping to protect the pulp from trauma while still allowing for effective bonding of the final restoration. Other options, while they have their own functions, do not specifically cater to the need for thermal protection in a deep preparation. A protective liner, for instance, is typically used to provide a barrier against chemical irritation for the pulp but may not offer adequate thermal insulation. A restorative base can support the final restoration and provide some degree of insulation, but it typically serves more than just pulpal defense. An aesthetic base is not usually a consideration in posterior teeth, as aesthetics is less of a concern compared to functional requirements in these areas. Thus