HESI
Dental Hygiene Exam 2026 | Practice Questions
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, HESI Dental Hygiene Exam 2026 | Practice
Questions & Answers | Comprehensive Dental
Hygiene Exam Prep
1. Under which classification of gingival diseases and conditions is
puberty-associated gingivitis found?
A. Plaque-induced gingival diseases modified by medications
B. Plaque-induced gingival diseases modified by systemic factors
C. Non-plaque-induced gingival lesions
D. Gingival diseases modified by malnutrition
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Puberty-associated gingivitis is classified as a plaque-induced
gingival disease modified by systemic factors. During puberty, increased
levels of sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) alter the gingival
response to plaque biofilm, causing an exaggerated inflammatory
response. This is classified under systemic factors because the
hormonal changes are endogenous systemic influences.
,2. A patient presents with a short, thick lingual frenum that results in
limited tongue movement affecting speech. Which is the most likely
diagnosis of this condition?
A. Ankyloglossia
B. Lingual thyroid
C. Frenectomy
D. Macroglossia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Ankyloglossia, commonly known as "tongue-tie," is a
condition characterized by a short, thick, or tight lingual frenum that
restricts tongue mobility. This can affect speech, swallowing, and oral
hygiene. Treatment may involve a frenectomy (surgical release of the
frenum) if function is significantly impaired.
3. When is tooth eruption complete?
A. When the crown emerges through the gingiva
B. When the tooth has made contact with its antagonists in the
opposing jaw
C. When the root is fully formed
D. When the apex closes
, Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tooth eruption is considered complete when the tooth has
made contact with its antagonists (opposing teeth) in the opposite jaw.
This occurs after the crown has emerged and the tooth has moved into
functional occlusion. Root formation continues after eruption is
complete.
4. When does mixed dentition begin?
A. Eruption of the first primary tooth
B. Eruption of the first permanent tooth
C. Exfoliation of the first primary tooth
D. Complete eruption of all permanent teeth
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Mixed dentition begins with the eruption of the first
permanent tooth, typically the mandibular first molar at approximately
6 years of age. This period is characterized by the presence of both
primary and permanent teeth in the oral cavity and continues until all
primary teeth have exfoliated.
5. How many succedaneous teeth are in permanent dentition?
Dental Hygiene Exam 2026 | Practice Questions
& Answers | Comprehensive Dental Hygiene
Exam Prep
FEATURES
✓ HESI Dental Hygiene Exam Prep
✓ Practice Questions & Answers
✓ Detailed Rationales & Explanations
, HESI Dental Hygiene Exam 2026 | Practice
Questions & Answers | Comprehensive Dental
Hygiene Exam Prep
1. Under which classification of gingival diseases and conditions is
puberty-associated gingivitis found?
A. Plaque-induced gingival diseases modified by medications
B. Plaque-induced gingival diseases modified by systemic factors
C. Non-plaque-induced gingival lesions
D. Gingival diseases modified by malnutrition
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Puberty-associated gingivitis is classified as a plaque-induced
gingival disease modified by systemic factors. During puberty, increased
levels of sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) alter the gingival
response to plaque biofilm, causing an exaggerated inflammatory
response. This is classified under systemic factors because the
hormonal changes are endogenous systemic influences.
,2. A patient presents with a short, thick lingual frenum that results in
limited tongue movement affecting speech. Which is the most likely
diagnosis of this condition?
A. Ankyloglossia
B. Lingual thyroid
C. Frenectomy
D. Macroglossia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Ankyloglossia, commonly known as "tongue-tie," is a
condition characterized by a short, thick, or tight lingual frenum that
restricts tongue mobility. This can affect speech, swallowing, and oral
hygiene. Treatment may involve a frenectomy (surgical release of the
frenum) if function is significantly impaired.
3. When is tooth eruption complete?
A. When the crown emerges through the gingiva
B. When the tooth has made contact with its antagonists in the
opposing jaw
C. When the root is fully formed
D. When the apex closes
, Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tooth eruption is considered complete when the tooth has
made contact with its antagonists (opposing teeth) in the opposite jaw.
This occurs after the crown has emerged and the tooth has moved into
functional occlusion. Root formation continues after eruption is
complete.
4. When does mixed dentition begin?
A. Eruption of the first primary tooth
B. Eruption of the first permanent tooth
C. Exfoliation of the first primary tooth
D. Complete eruption of all permanent teeth
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Mixed dentition begins with the eruption of the first
permanent tooth, typically the mandibular first molar at approximately
6 years of age. This period is characterized by the presence of both
primary and permanent teeth in the oral cavity and continues until all
primary teeth have exfoliated.
5. How many succedaneous teeth are in permanent dentition?
