Dental Admissions Test (DAT) Practice Test

Name a common dental emergency that requires immediate care.

1. Cavity

2. A knocked-out tooth

3. Tooth sensitivity

4. Gum bleeding

The correct answer is: A knocked-out tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a common dental emergency that requires immediate care because the prognosis for saving the tooth is significantly better if the incident is addressed quickly. When a tooth is avulsed, it is crucial to handle the tooth correctly—by holding it by the crown and not the root—and to reinsert it into the socket if possible or store it in a container of milk or saline until professional treatment can be obtained. The dental pulp can remain viable for a limited time, and prompt action is essential to prevent irreparable damage and increase the chances of successful reattachment. In contrast, a cavity, while needing attention, is not an immediate emergency, as it typically progresses slowly and can be managed during a scheduled dental visit. Tooth sensitivity often indicates a need for intervention but does not warrant immediate care as it may not result in severe consequences if delayed. Gum bleeding can occur due to various factors, including gum disease, and while it is important to address, it is usually not an urgent situation that requires instant treatment like a knocked-out tooth does.