Dental Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following functions does a mouth mirror NOT perform?

1. View

2. Reflect

3. Retain

4. Protect

The correct answer is: Retain

A mouth mirror is an essential instrument in dentistry that serves several key functions vital for effective dental procedures. The primary purposes include allowing the clinician to view surfaces of the teeth and oral cavity that may be difficult to see directly, reflecting light into those areas to enhance visibility, and providing a degree of protection by keeping the cheeks, tongue, and soft tissues out of the way while treatment is being performed. The function that is not associated with a mouth mirror is retaining. While the mouth mirror can aid in positioning and indirectly assist in some retention of soft tissues, it does not have a specific role in retaining materials or structures during procedures. Retention refers to the ability to hold or maintain items in place, which is typically achieved using other dental tools such as cotton rolls, retractors, or other devices specifically designed for that purpose. Therefore, the mouth mirror's functions center around visibility and convenience rather than retention.