HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What are paper points used for in dentistry?

1. To clean and fill cavities

2. To smooth out rough edges

3. To dry the prep site or carry medication

4. To apply fluoride treatment

The correct answer is: To dry the prep site or carry medication

Paper points are fine, absorbent cones that are primarily used in endodontics, which is the branch of dentistry that deals with the treatment of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. They are designed to effectively dry the preparation site after the root canal has been completed. The absorbent material allows them to soak up moisture from the canals, ensuring that they are adequately dried before any filling material is placed. In addition to drying, paper points can also be used to carry medicaments into the canal. This utility is crucial when a dentist needs to apply a medication to assist in the healing of tissues or to disinfect the canal before filling it. This makes paper points an essential tool for both achieving a clean and dry environment and for facilitating the delivery of topical treatments within the canal space, ultimately contributing to the success of endodontic procedures. Other options, such as cleaning and filling cavities or applying fluoride treatments, do not accurately represent the primary function of paper points in a dental context. Each tool used in dentistry has a specific purpose, and understanding the distinct role of paper points enhances the knowledge of dental practices, particularly in endodontics.