Name a common dental instrument used for scaling.

A scaler is a specialized dental instrument specifically designed for removing plaque, tartar, and stains from the surfaces of teeth, particularly in the periodontal areas. This instrument is essential for dental hygienists and other dental professionals during cleanings to maintain oral health and prevent gum disease. The scaler comes in various designs, including hand scalers and ultrasonic scalers, which enhance its effectiveness and enables practitioners to access various areas of the mouth easily.

In contrast, forceps are primarily used for extracting teeth, a fundamentally different function. A hygienic spatula is intended for mixing dental materials rather than for scaling tooth surfaces, and a chisel is primarily used for shaping or cutting dental materials, not for cleaning teeth. Understanding the specific purpose of each instrument highlights why a scaler is the appropriate choice for scaling procedures in dental practices.