HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which of the following best describes a surgical scalpel?

1. An instrument used for shaping dentures

2. A type of dental drill

3. A sharp instrument used for cutting tissues

4. An instrument for performing root canals

The correct answer is: A sharp instrument used for cutting tissues

A surgical scalpel is best described as a sharp instrument used for cutting tissues. This instrument is crucial in various medical and dental procedures, allowing precise incisions to be made on soft tissues. Its design features a sharp blade that enables healthcare professionals to perform surgeries or procedures that require access to deeper structures beneath the skin or mucous membranes. The accuracy and cleanliness of the cut are essential to prevent excess trauma to surrounding tissues, which aids in healing and minimizes complications. Understanding the role of a surgical scalpel is fundamental for those in the dental field, as it highlights the importance of surgical instruments in procedures beyond basic dental care, particularly in oral surgery.