NOCTI Dental Assisting Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A model trimmer is a specialized piece of equipment used in dental assisting that shapes and smooths dental casts. After a dental impression is taken and poured into a mold to create a cast, it often requires adjustment to ensure it is functional and aesthetically pleasing. The model trimmer effectively removes excess material from the cast, creating a uniform and precise representation of the patient's dental anatomy.

Using the model trimmer, the dental assistant can ensure that the edges are smooth and the overall shape is accurate, which is critical for creating dental appliances such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. This process influences the fit and comfort of dental restorations, making it a crucial step in dental fabrications.

While trimming excess alginate is a part of handling impressions, it is not the primary function of a model trimmer. Similarly, while finishing touches on a crown are an important part of dental procedures, that task typically involves different tools and techniques. Mixing dental materials is also essential in dental assisting but does not pertain to the specific functionality of a model trimmer.