National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) Practice Exam

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Study for the National Dental Examining Board of Canada Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions to solidify your knowledge. Prepare effectively for your dental licensing exam!

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What is most likely to be misdiagnosed as proximal caries on a BW of posterior teeth?

  1. Cemental tear

  2. Horizontal bone loss

  3. External resorption

  4. Cervical burnout

The correct answer is: Cemental tear

Cemental tear is the most likely to be misdiagnosed as proximal caries on a BW of posterior teeth because it presents as a radiolucent area on the outer surface of the root, which can easily be mistaken for caries. This is especially true in cases where the tear is located near the CEJ, where caries are more commonly found. The other options, horizontal bone loss, external resorption, and cervical burnout, are all clearly distinguishable from proximal caries on a BW of posterior teeth. Horizontal bone loss appears as a horizontal radiopaque line on the roots, external resorption shows as a radiolucent area with a well-defined irregular border, and cervical burnout appears as a narrowed or obliterated pulp canal. Therefore, these three options are less likely to be misdiagnosed as proximal caries.