HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

What is the typical use of a high-speed handpiece in dental procedures?

1. To polish teeth

2. To remove decay

3. To place fillings

4. To extract teeth

The correct answer is: To remove decay

The typical use of a high-speed handpiece in dental procedures is primarily for removing decay. High-speed handpieces are designed to operate at very high rotational speeds, which allows them to efficiently cut through enamel and dentin tissue. This capability makes them ideal for preparation of cavities as they can swiftly and effectively clear out unhealthy tooth material, facilitating the restoration process. The precision and speed of high-speed handpieces help to maintain the integrity of the surrounding tooth structure while also reducing the time needed for the procedure. Other options, while relevant to dental practices, are not the primary functions of a high-speed handpiece. For example, polishing teeth is more commonly performed using lower-speed handpieces or polishing tools that have less torque and are suited for achieving a smooth finish after decay has been removed. Placing fillings typically involves using low-speed handpieces or other specialized instruments designed specifically for material application and manipulation. Tooth extraction is generally done using surgical instruments designed for leverage and control, rather than the high-speed cutting action of a handpiece.