California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Written Practice Exam

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When the dentist taps on a tooth, what diagnostic test is being performed?

  1. Inspection

  2. Palpation

  3. Percussion

  4. Auscultation

The correct answer is: Percussion

When the dentist taps on a tooth, it is often called tooth percussion. This is a diagnostic test that involves tapping on the tooth to assess its health and identify any underlying issues. Inspection would involve visually examining the tooth, while palpation would involve applying pressure to the tooth using the hands. Auscultation involves listening for any abnormal sounds, which is not applicable when examining a tooth. Therefore, the correct answer is percussion.