HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

Which instrument is commonly used to remove decay from a cavity preparation?

1. Curette

2. Excavator

3. Spoon Excavator

4. Dental Probe

The correct answer is: Spoon Excavator

The correct choice is commonly recognized for its design and function tailored to effectively remove decay from a cavity preparation. The spoon excavator features a rounded or spoon-like design that facilitates the removal of decayed dental tissue from within a cavity. Its shape allows dental professionals to access and scoop out softened tooth structure specifically, making it an essential tool during the restorative process. While other instruments have specific uses, they don't serve the same purpose as effectively as the spoon excavator in the context of decay removal. For instance, the curette is primarily used for scaling and root planing, which is relevant for periodontal therapy rather than restorative work. The general excavator serves a broader role in cavity preparations but lacks the specific design for precise decay removal like the spoon excavator does. The dental probe is typically utilized for assessing the depth of cavities or probing for carious lesions but is not designed specifically for excavation of decayed material. By choosing the spoon excavator, practitioners ensure that they are employing the most appropriate tool for the intricate task of decay removal, leading to better restoration outcomes.