HOSA Dental Terminology Practice 2025 - Free Dental Terminology Practice Questions and Study Guide

A periodontal scaler is specifically designed for the removal of calculus, which is hardened plaque that forms on the teeth, along with smoothing out excess material known as flash. This tool is crucial in periodontal therapy to help maintain gum health by cleaning the surfaces of the teeth and below the gum line. Its sharp, pointed tip allows dental professionals to effectively reach and remove deposits from the tooth surfaces, particularly in areas that may be difficult to access with other instruments. The importance of this function highlights its role in preventing gum disease and promoting overall oral health, making the task of calculus removal an essential duty during dental cleanings.

The other options pertain to different instruments and their specific roles in dentistry: elevating root tips involves the use of elevators, smoothing bone edges requires instruments like bone files, and packing gutta percha in root canals is done using specialized filling tools. Each has a distinct purpose unrelated to the primary function of a periodontal scaler.