HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Carvers are primarily used for which purpose in dental restorations?

1. To remove caries from teeth

2. To pack fillings into cavities

3. To carve or recreate tooth anatomy on amalgam restorations

4. To place bevels on cavity margins

The correct answer is: To carve or recreate tooth anatomy on amalgam restorations

Carvers are specifically designed tools used in dentistry to shape and contour dental materials, particularly to recreate the natural anatomy of teeth, especially in amalgam restorations. When a dentist places an amalgam filling, it initially has a smooth and featureless surface. The carver's primary role is to sculpt this material in a way that mimics the natural contours and grooves of the tooth structure, ensuring that the restoration not only fits well but also functions correctly within the bite and occlusion. This sculpting process is crucial for achieving proper interproximal contacts and restoring the natural appearance of the tooth. The carver allows for detailed work to refine occlusal surfaces, create grooves, and establish the necessary anatomy that ensures effective chewing and minimizes plaque accumulation around the restoration. Thus, the specific function of carvers in creating tooth anatomy distinguishes them from tools designed for other purposes in dental procedures, such as removing caries or packing fillings.