What does a dappen dish hold during dental procedures?

A dappen dish is specifically designed to hold small amounts of materials used in dental procedures. It is typically made from glass or plastic and has a shallow well that allows for easy access to the contents.

When it comes to the selection of materials that a dappen dish holds, it is particularly useful for cements and bases. These materials are often utilized in various dental applications, including temporary or permanent cementation of crowns and bridges, as well as for liners and bases used in cavity preparations. The dappen dish's design enables precise mixing and application of these materials, making it an essential tool for chairside assisting during dental procedures.

Other materials like rubber dam materials, mandrel discs, or acid etch-gel are not typically held in a dappen dish. Rubber dam materials are used for isolation and are stored separately, while mandrel discs are used for polishing and are usually organized differently. Acid etch-gel is commonly dispensed directly onto the tooth surface or held in a syringe, rather than in a dappen dish. This further emphasizes the appropriate use of the dappen dish specifically for cements and bases in dental settings.