National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the National Dental Assisting Exam with comprehensive quiz questions, including multiple choice and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

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Which instrument is used primarily for grasping small objects during dental procedures?

Forceps
Tooth elevator
Explorer
Cheek retractor

The correct answer is: Forceps

The instrument primarily used for grasping small objects during dental procedures is forceps. Forceps are designed specifically to hold, manipulate, or remove small items, making them essential for various tasks in dentistry including the extraction of teeth and the handling of delicate materials. Their design often incorporates a locking mechanism or a specific shape that allows for a secure grip, providing the dental professional with the precision needed when working in the oral cavity. In contrast, a tooth elevator is primarily used for lifting a tooth or a root from its socket, focusing on applying leverage rather than the direct grasping of small objects. An explorer is utilized to detect caries or calculus on teeth, serving more diagnostic purposes than manipulative. A cheek retractor is designed to hold back the cheeks and improve visibility in the oral cavity, thus it does not play a role in grasping objects. Each of these instruments has a distinct purpose, but forceps stand out for their functionality in gripping and handling small items essential to a dental procedure.