Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

The _________ are the area on the side of the nail plate that grows free of the natural attachment of the nail fold and free edge.

1. Sidewalls

2. Eponychium

3. Nail bed

4. Cuticle

The correct answer is: Sidewalls

The sidewalls, sometimes referred to as the lateral nail folds, are the areas located on the sides of the nail plate. They play a critical role in the overall structure and appearance of the nail. These areas are where the skin surrounding the nail plate helps to secure and protect the nail as it grows, allowing it to extend free from the natural attachment of the nail fold and free edge. Understanding the anatomy of the nail is essential for nail technicians in order to provide appropriate care and services. The sidewalls help maintain the health of the nail by preventing debris from entering between the nail and skin, which can lead to infections or other issues. The other terms mentioned in the choices refer to different parts of the nail anatomy. The eponychium is the cuticle area that lies at the base of the nail, providing protection to the area where new nail growth takes place. The nail bed is the portion of the finger or toe underneath the nail plate, which supports the nail structure but is not the area that grows free of attachment. The cuticle refers to the dead skin that overlaps the nail plate at the base, often misunderstood as being the same as the eponychium but actually representing a different part of the nail anatomy. Hence,