HOSA Chairside Assisting & Dental Instruments Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

Rongeurs are specialized surgical instruments primarily designed for the removal of bone. They feature a pair of blunt-edged jaws and are often used in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The rongeurs can grasp and cut bone tissues effectively, allowing the dentist or surgeon to contour and shape bone structures during procedures such as tooth extractions, the removal of tumors, or other surgical interventions where bone removal is necessary.

While options like trimming soft tissue, extracting teeth, or performing fillings involve different instruments and techniques, the defining characteristic of rongeurs is their capability to handle and manipulate bone tissue rather than soft tissue or dental restorative materials. Understanding the specific function of instruments like rongeurs is crucial in dental assisting and surgical settings, ensuring that the right tools are utilized for their intended purposes.