When would a dentist most likely use an acorn burnisher?

An acorn burnisher is specifically designed to smooth and contour dental filling materials after they have been placed in a cavity. Its shape, resembling that of an acorn, allows the dentist to effectively polish the surface of the filling material, ensuring it is smooth and blends well with the natural tooth structure. This step is crucial after placing a filling, as it helps to enhance the aesthetic appearance and also contributes to the longevity of the filling by reducing the risk of plaque accumulation and ensuring a proper occlusion.

Other activities such as cavity preparation involve different instruments that are geared towards removing decay and shaping the cavity, while tooth extractions and root canal treatments utilize specialized tools tailored for those specific procedures. Thus, the use of an acorn burnisher is most relevant immediately following the placement of filling materials.