Which instrument combination is commonly used for carving amalgam?

• A. Discoid-cleoid carver and straight beavertail or cleoid spoon.
• B. Mirror and explorer.
• C. Curing light and matrix.
• D. Chisel and handpiece.

Answer: (A)

Carving amalgam requires using specific carvers to shape and contour the set material after condensation. The discoid-cleoid carver provides a broad, flat surface that efficiently removes excess and establishes general occlusal contours, while the straight beavertail or cleoid spoon end allows precise refinement of grooves, cusps, and marginal ridges in tighter or more detailed areas. Together, they offer versatile control to recreate natural tooth anatomy and ensure proper contacts and occlusion. Other tools listed aren’t suited for carving: a mirror and explorer are for inspection and detection, not shaping; a curing light and matrix are used with resin-based restorations, not amalgam carving; and a chisel with a handpiece is more for cutting tooth structure during preparation rather than finishing the amalgam surface.