HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

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Master HOSA Dental terminology with interactive quizzes and multiple-choice questions. Study with confidence and enhance your ability for exam success and knowledge expansion. Prepare effectively and achieve your certification goals.

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What is the primary use of forceps in dentistry?

To take x-rays
To grasp tissue and clamp blood vessels
To examine tooth decay
To clean the mouth

The correct answer is: To grasp tissue and clamp blood vessels

The primary use of forceps in dentistry is to grasp tissue and clamp blood vessels. Forceps are specialized instruments designed to provide a secure grip on various tissues in the oral cavity. In dental procedures, they are often employed for extraction of teeth, in which they can firmly grasp the tooth to facilitate removal. Moreover, during surgical interventions, forceps can be used to manipulate soft tissue or to hold blood vessels in place, helping to control bleeding and improve visibility for the dentist. While other options such as taking x-rays, examining tooth decay, and cleaning the mouth are essential components of dental care, they do not accurately reflect the specific function of forceps. X-ray tools are separate imaging devices, diagnostic examinations typically utilize mirrors and explorers instead of forceps, and cleaning the mouth involves instruments such as scalers and prophy angles rather than forceps. Thus, the correct focus on the role of forceps centers around their function in grasping and clamping during various dental procedures.