DANB General Chairside Practice Test

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Prepare for the DANB General Chairside Exam with interactive quizzes. Explore multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations to boost your readiness. Ace your test with confidence!

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Which instrument is best suited for placing a gingival retraction cord?

Plastic filling instrument
Round bur
Scalpel
Examination mirror

The correct answer is: Plastic filling instrument

The best choice for placing a gingival retraction cord is the plastic filling instrument. This instrument is designed to have a smooth, rounded tip, which makes it ideal for gently pushing the retraction cord into the sulcus without causing trauma to the surrounding gum tissue. Its design allows for precise manipulation, ensuring that the cord is properly placed to create the necessary space for effective moisture control and better visibility for the dentist during procedures such as tooth preparation for a crown. Other instruments listed, such as a round bur, scalpel, and examination mirror, do not serve this specific purpose. A round bur is meant for cutting or drilling into dental structures, while a scalpel is used for incisions and surgeries, which could harm the tissue rather than aid in gentle cord placement. An examination mirror is primarily used for visual assistance and can't effectively manipulate materials like a retraction cord. Therefore, the plastic filling instrument is the most appropriate and efficient tool for placing gingival retraction cords.