Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What is the minimum required thickness for base metal in dental applications?

1. 0.1 mm

2. 0.2 mm

3. 0.3 mm

4. 0.4 mm

The correct answer is: 0.2 mm

The minimum required thickness for base metal in dental applications is 0.2 mm. This thickness ensures that the base metal provides adequate strength and durability while maintaining biocompatibility and esthetics. A thickness of 0.2 mm strikes a balance between the mechanical properties needed for supporting restorations and the functional requirements for the dental application. Using base metal that is too thin can lead to issues such as inadequate strength, increasing the risk of fracture or deformation under functional load. Additionally, crucial aspects like corrosion resistance and fit can be compromised with insufficient thickness. Therefore, 0.2 mm is a standard benchmark that helps to ensure longevity and reliability in dental restorations and prosthetics.