Which is an example of a remediable task in dental practice?

• A. Prophylaxis
• B. Periodontal probing
• C. Root planing
• D. Crown preparation

Answer: (A)

Remediable tasks are basic, teachable procedures that clinicians can noticeably improve with focused instruction and practice. Prophylaxis fits this well because it is a routine cleaning with clear, repeatable steps and objective outcomes (effective calculus and plaque removal, smooth surfaces, patient comfort). If someone isn’t meeting standard, targeted coaching on technique, instrument control, and sequence can lead to observable improvement through repeated practice.

In contrast, root planing and crown preparation are more complex procedures with higher precision and risk, making remediation more challenging and requiring more extensive retraining. Periodontal probing is a diagnostic measurement rather than a hands-on treatment, so it doesn’t align as clearly with remediation of a treatment task.