So many are hesitant and slightly intimidated by the idea of using hand cutting instruments. It’s understandable, I never picked one up until a few years ago when I was preparing for the bench test myself. But after getting used to them, I wouldn’t think of doing an ideal prep without one, they are very good.

Assuming it has a sharp blade (protect it btw, don’t let it bump into everything else and get dulled out!), it can cut away tooth structure like butter.

Okay maybe a bit of exaggeration there, but really, it’s that good.

Just like using a handpiece, keeping a solid rest is very important.