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Restorative & Materials · single question

When an endodontic cold (ice) test yields a NEGATIVE result but the tooth is actually vital, this is called a:

  1. True positive
  2. False positive
  3. True negative
  4. False negative (test says no response but tooth IS vital)
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. False negative (test says no response but tooth IS vital)

  • A. True positive: test says positive AND tooth is vital — correct result.
  • B. A false positive: test says positive (vital) but tooth is actually non-vital — incorrect response.
  • C. True negative: test says negative AND tooth is actually non-vital — correct result.
  • D. Correct. A FALSE NEGATIVE occurs when the TEST RESULT IS NEGATIVE (no response) but the ACTUAL STATE IS POSITIVE (tooth is vital). This can occur in: (1) calcified canals blocking stimulus transmission, (2) recently traumatized teeth with temporary sensory disturbance, (3) teeth with thick restorations, (4) poor test technique. A false negative leads to misdiagnosis of non-vitality.

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