HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of dental material is referred to as "dycal"?

1. Calcium hydroxide with therapeutic effects

2. A type of resin used for fillings

3. A colorant for dental appliances

4. A whitening agent for tooth enamel

The correct answer is: Calcium hydroxide with therapeutic effects

The term "dycal" refers specifically to a dental material that is primarily composed of calcium hydroxide. This material is known for its therapeutic effects, particularly in dental procedures. Calcium hydroxide serves several important functions in dentistry, such as promoting the healing of the dental pulp and acting as a base or lining under restorations to protect the pulp from thermal, chemical, or bacterial irritation. Dycal is often utilized in procedures such as pulpotomy, where it is applied to the dental pulp after the removal of infected tissue, or as a liner under restorative materials like dental crowns and fillings to provide additional protection to the underlying tooth structure. Its properties make it conducive for stimulating reparative dentin formation, which is crucial for maintaining overall tooth health. The other options presented do not accurately describe dycal. While resin materials are commonly used in fillings, they do not share the same therapeutic function as dycal. Colorants serve aesthetic purposes in dental appliances but are unrelated to the healing effects of calcium hydroxide. Whitening agents are specifically formulated chemicals for enhancing the appearance of tooth enamel through bleaching, which is distinctly different from the properties and applications of dycal. Thus, understanding the role and composition of dycal is vital for its correct application in dental practice