Which instrument is used to smooth the surface of an amalgam restoration?

• A. Mouth mirror
• B. Right angle probe
• C. Burnisher
• D. Flat plastic

Answer: (C)

A burnisher is used to smooth the surface of an amalgam restoration. After the amalgam has been placed and carved, a burnisher helps compact the surface and create a smooth, glossy finish by smoothing out minor irregularities and marking the margins to improve marginal adaptation. This step reduces surface roughness that could trap plaque and enhances the restoration’s appearance and longevity. The mouth mirror is for indirect vision and tissue retraction, the right-angle probe checks margins and depth, and a flat plastic instrument is generally used for carving or shaping materials like composites rather than finishing the amalgam surface.