What is the primary use of an excavator during MOD preparation?

The primary use of an excavator during MOD (Mesio-Occluso-Disto) preparation is to remove caries lesions. This tool is specifically designed to aid in the efficient and effective removal of decayed tooth structure, helping to clean out areas affected by caries. The design of an excavator allows for precision in accessing and removing soft, infected dentin while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

When preparing a tooth for a restoration, the removal of carious tissue is essential to ensure a successful bond between the restorative material and the remaining tooth structure, ultimately leading to better longevity and health of the tooth. Other tools and procedures might aid in refining the preparation, but the key initial step is the removal of caries with the excavator.

Other functions, such as performing grooves, reshaping margins, or polishing restorations, are secondary to caries removal. Although those tasks may be part of the overall preparation and finishing process, the core function of an excavator in this context focuses on eliminating decay to create a solid foundation for the restoration.