Which dental instrument is mainly used for removing or smoothing tooth structure?

The most appropriate instrument for removing or smoothing tooth structure is the handpiece. The handpiece is a critical tool in dentistry, equipped with rotating bur attachments that perform various functions, including the removal of decayed or damaged tooth structure, as well as shaping and smoothing enamel and dentin.

The handpiece provides high-speed efficiency, allowing dental professionals to complete procedures like cavity preparation with precision. Its versatility makes it essential in restorative dentistry, where both the removal of material and the refinement of tooth surfaces are necessary for successful outcomes.

While an explorer is used to detect decay and smooth surfaces minimally, and a scaler focuses on removing calculus from teeth, neither serves the primary purpose of removing or smoothing tooth structure as effectively as the handpiece. A burnisher is designed to achieve a high shine on restorative materials or to smooth dental surfaces but is not used for the initial removal of tooth structure. Thus, the handpiece stands out as the correct instrument for this specific dental task.