California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Written Practice Exam

What damage can result from using the prophy angle at high speed?

1. It can cause the device to break

2. It can cause frictional heat

3. It can remove enamel

4. It can reduce effectiveness

The correct answer is: It can cause frictional heat

Using the prophy angle at high speed can cause frictional heat, which can result in damage to the tooth's enamel. This is because the high speed creates excess heat and pressure, causing the enamel to become weakened and prone to damage. While options A, C, and D may also have potential negative effects, they do not specifically pertain to the use of the prophy angle at high speed. Therefore, they are incorrect. For example, option A may occur if the device is dropped or mishandled, while option C may occur if the prophy angle is used improperly or too aggressively. Option D may occur if the prophy angle is not used correctly or if the proper cleaning solution is not used. However, in regards to the specific damage that can result from using the prophy angle at high speed, option B is the correct and most accurate answer.