Which instruments are typically sharpened to maintain cutting edges and reduce tissue trauma?

• A. Scissors and forceps
• B. Scalers and curets.
• C. Mirrors and explorers
• D. Probes and matrices

Answer: (B)

Sharp, well-maintained cutting edges are essential for effective calculus removal with minimal tissue trauma. Scalers and curets are the dental instruments designed to cut and lift calculus off tooth surfaces; keeping their edges sharp allows them to slice through deposits cleanly and glide along the surfaces with less pressure. Regular sharpening restores the precise angle and edge geometry, which reduces slips and gouging of gingival tissue and makes the work easier and more comfortable for the patient. Scalers have a sickle-shaped blade with a pointed edge, while curets have a curved blade with cutting edges that need honing to stay effective. The other tools listed are mainly for visualization, assessment, or restorative procedures and are not maintained for cutting edges in the same way, so sharpening focuses on scalers and curets.