Which instrument would NOT be used to bevel the gingival margin of an MOD inlay preparation?

Correct answer: D. Enamel hatchet

• A. A fine tapered finishing bur can also be used to place and refine the bevel.
• B. The gingival margin trimmer is the hand instrument specifically designed for this task, with its curved blade and angled cutting edge.
• C. A flame-shaped finishing diamond is routinely used to place gingival bevels.
• D. CORRECT — this is the exception. The ENAMEL HATCHET has its cutting edge in the PLANE OF THE HANDLE and a straight blade, which makes it entirely unable to reach around and address the gingival floor of a proximal box at the correct angle. It is designed for planing vertical walls, not for placing a gingival bevel.

Note: The purpose of the gingival bevel on a cast restoration is to produce a 30–40° marginal metal angle that can be burnished, and to remove unsupported enamel rods at the margin.