Procedures
anatomic (an-uh-TOM-ik) portion - correct answer ✔structural portion of a
dental model created from the alginate impression
articulator - correct answer ✔dental laboratory device that simulates the
movement of the mandible and temporomandibular joint when the dental cast
is attached to it
dimensionally (di-MEN-shun-uh-lee) stable - correct answer ✔referring to a
dental material that retains its original dimension when subjected to a change
in temperature and humidity
die - correct answer ✔accurate replica of the prepared portion of a tooth
used in the laboratory for the fabrication of a cast restoration
dihydrate - correct answer ✔related to gypsum products, indicating two parts
of water to one part of calcium sulfate
face bow - correct answer ✔portion of articulator used to transfer the
relationship of the maxillary arch and temporomandibular joint to a dental cast
gypsum - correct answer ✔chemically known as calcium sulfate dihydrate; a
mineral used in the formation of plaster of Paris and dental stone
hemihydrate - correct answer ✔when gypsum is heated, it loses water and
converts to calcium sulfate, forming the powder product of gypsum
,homogenous (hoe-MOJ-uh-nus), homogeneous - correct answer ✔having a
uniform quality and consistency throughout
lathe - correct answer ✔dental laboratory machine with various cutting
instruments, grinding stone, and polishing wheels used for dental appliances
model - correct answer ✔replica of the maxillary and mandibular arches
made from an impression
monomer - correct answer ✔molecule that, when combined with other
molecules, forms a polymer
nuclei crystallization - correct answer ✔chemical process in the setting of
dental stone and plaster in which a cluster of crystals interlink, giving strength
and rigidity
polymer - correct answer ✔chemical compound consisting of like units
bonded together
slurry - correct answer ✔mixture of gypsum and water used in the finishing of
models
volatile - correct answer ✔substance that can evaporate easily and is very
explosive
Safety in the Dental Laboratory - correct answer ✔When working in the
laboratory, you must make safety your first concern. It is essential to follow
safety precautions and infection control procedures. Remember, items
brought into the laboratory from the treatment room area are contaminated,
, and exposure control is just as important here as when you are with the
patient.
Laboratory Rules
• No eating, drinking, or smoking is permitted.
• Keep all cosmetics away from the area.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in the laboratory.
• Keep hair pulled back.
• Report all accidents to the dentist immediately.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for equipment operation.
• Clean the work area before and after every procedure.
Physical Safety
When working around electrical equipment or items that produce high heat,
become familiar with the location of the fire extinguisher and with fire escape
routes. Keep all equipment in good working order, and always follow the
manufacturer's directions when handling equipment.
Chemical Safety
Dental materials in the laboratory area may include corrosive, toxic, or
carcinogenic substances. Take care when handling and using these materials,
and take special precautions to avoid coming in direct contact with chemicals
that could be inhaled, absorbed, or ingested. (See Chapter 23 on exposure to
and protection from hazardous chemicals.)
Biohazards
Biohazards are associated with the treatment area and the sterilization center.
However, impressions and other items brought into the laboratory can harbor
blood and saliva that can be infectious. The laboratory area and contaminated
items must be disinfected before and after each use when biohazards are a
concern.
1. Where would the dental laboratory be located in a dental office? - correct
answer ✔The dental laboratory would be a separate space, away from the
patient treatment areas.