Which cutting tool is used to remove decay and gain access to a cavity?

Which cutting tool is used to remove decay and gain access to a cavity?

• A. Calcium hydroxide applicator
• B. Round burs
• C. Rubber dam frame
• D. Clamp forceps

Answer: (B)

Removing decay and gaining access to a cavity requires a cutting instrument that can selectively remove softened carious dentin while shaping the cavity walls. Round burs are ideal for this task because their curved cutting surfaces let you remove decayed tissue in a controlled, gradual way without gouging healthy dentin. This enables you to expose the decay and create a proper entry for restoration. The other tools listed aren’t cutting instruments: a calcium hydroxide applicator places medicament in the tooth, while a rubber dam frame and clamp forceps are used for isolating the tooth with a rubber dam, not for removing decay.

Removing decay and gaining access to a cavity requires a cutting instrument that can selectively remove softened carious dentin while shaping the cavity walls. Round burs are ideal for this task because their curved cutting surfaces let you remove decayed tissue in a controlled, gradual way without gouging healthy dentin. This enables you to expose the decay and create a proper entry for restoration.

The other tools listed aren’t cutting instruments: a calcium hydroxide applicator places medicament in the tooth, while a rubber dam frame and clamp forceps are used for isolating the tooth with a rubber dam, not for removing decay.