What is the primary function of a hemostat in dental procedures?

The primary function of a hemostat in dental procedures is to control bleeding by clamping blood vessels, which aligns with the correct answer regarding its role in stabilizing tissues during surgical procedures where sutures may be placed. Hemostats are designed with a locking mechanism that allows them to maintain their grip on the tissue, making them essential for managing hemostasis—stopping or controlling bleeding—before sutures are applied.

In dental surgery, effective control of bleeding is critical to provide a clear field for the dental professional and to enhance patient safety. While they are not specifically used to place suture clamps, their design enables them to facilitate the suturing process by holding tissue in a position where sutures can be effectively applied.

The other options indicate the use of instruments with functions that do not align with the hemostat's design and purpose. Cutting tools are specifically used for incising tissue, dispensing cement refers to instruments designed for applying dental materials, and suction devices are meant to remove fluids rather than control bleeding. Each of these has its distinct function in dental care, making them unsuitable comparisons to the hemostat’s main role.