HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the primary use of a root tip pick?

1. To remove dental plaque

2. To extract wisdom teeth

3. To remove root tips or fragments from a surgical site

4. To smooth the edges of teeth

The correct answer is: To remove root tips or fragments from a surgical site

The primary use of a root tip pick is to remove root tips or fragments from a surgical site. This tool is specifically designed to aid dental professionals during procedures where remnants of tooth roots may be left behind after an extraction. The pick allows for precise navigation in the confined space of the tooth socket, ensuring that all fragments are effectively removed to promote healing and prevent complications such as infection or cyst formation. While other tools and techniques are utilized for tasks like plaque removal, wisdom tooth extraction, or smoothing edges of teeth, the root tip pick's unique design is tailored for the specific challenge of dealing with root fragments, making it indispensable in surgical settings focused on complete tooth extraction. This specialization is what distinguishes the root tip pick from other dental instruments and underscores its importance in ensuring thorough dental care.