DANB General Chairside Practice Test

Which method is inappropriate for cleaning a removable denture prosthesis in a dental office?

1. Using ultrasonic cleaning devices

2. Soaking in antiseptic solutions

3. With routine prophylaxis instruments and brushes in the patient's mouth

4. Manual brushing with denture cleaner

The correct answer is: With routine prophylaxis instruments and brushes in the patient's mouth

Cleaning a removable denture prosthesis in a dental office requires methods that ensure both the effectiveness of the cleaning process and the safety of the patient. The use of routine prophylaxis instruments and brushes directly in the patient's mouth is inappropriate for a few reasons. First, using such instruments can introduce bacteria or pathogens that might be present in the patient's mouth onto the denture. This poses a risk of cross-contamination, potentially endangering the patient's health. Additionally, instruments designed for prophylaxis may not adequately clean the denture material itself, which could lead to inadequate cleaning. Manual cleaning with specifically designed denture brushes is much safer and more effective for maintaining the integrity of the prosthesis while ensuring that the cleaning process does not compromise hygiene. The other methods mentioned, such as ultrasonic cleaning devices, soaking in antiseptic solutions, and manual brushing with denture cleaner, are all accepted practices in dental care for maintaining removable dental prostheses. These methods provide more thorough cleaning while minimizing the risk associated with cross-contamination.