Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Dental OSCE Exam with interactive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed answer explanations. Boost your confidence and improve your clinical competencies!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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Where is the last one-third of the retentive arm of the clasp typically located?

Labial to the HOC
Bucal to the HOC
Apical to the HOC
Cervical to the HOC

The correct answer is: Apical to the HOC

The correct answer indicates that the last third of the retentive arm of the clasp is typically located apical to the height of contour (HOC). This positioning is crucial for ensuring that the clasp engages properly with the tooth, providing adequate retention. When the retentive arm is placed apically, it allows the clasp to achieve effective retention by following the contour of the tooth, allowing it to move toward the axial wall when forces are applied, while also minimizing encroachment on the gingival margin. The apical placement helps in maintaining the balance between retention and periodontal health by preventing undue stress on the surrounding tissues. This positioning allows for a secure grasp on the tooth while also facilitating a gentle interaction with the gums, which is essential for patient comfort and maintaining the integrity of the supportive structures of the tooth.