Dental Instruments and Tray Setups Flashcards

Which instrument is used to condense (pack) amalgam into a prepared cavity?

Answer: Amalgam condenser

An amalgam condenser (plugger) is used to pack/condense amalgam into a cavity preparation, eliminating voids and adapting it to the walls.

What is the purpose of the matrix band and retainer during an amalgam restoration?

Answer: To create a temporary wall replacing the missing tooth wall during restoration placement

A matrix band and retainer (such as the Tofflemire retainer) create a temporary interproximal wall, providing a form to condense amalgam against when one or more walls of the cavity preparation are missing.

Which dental hand instrument has a blade used for removing soft, carious dentin?

Answer: Spoon excavator

The spoon excavator has a spoon-shaped working end used to remove soft, carious dentin from cavity preparations.

What is the function of the periodontal probe?

Answer: Measure the depth of the gingival sulcus or periodontal pocket

The periodontal probe is a calibrated instrument used to measure the depth of the gingival sulcus or periodontal pockets in millimeters, aiding in periodontal assessment.

Which instrument is used to carve and shape amalgam restorations to restore occlusal anatomy?

Answer: Carver

Carvers (such as the Hollenback carver or discoid/cleoid carver) are used to remove excess amalgam and shape the restoration to restore proper occlusal anatomy before the material fully hardens.

What is the correct sequence for passing a dental instrument to the dentist during a procedure?

Answer: Handing at the transfer zone with working end oriented for immediate use

Instruments are passed in the transfer zone (below the patient's chin) with the working end oriented so the dentist can receive it and use it immediately without repositioning.