HOSA Dental Science Practice Exam 2025 - Free Dental Science Practice Questions and Study Guide

The laser handpiece attachment is essential for achieving controlled cutting in soft tissue due to its precision and ability to minimize collateral damage to surrounding areas. Lasers work by concentrating energy into a focused beam that can selectively cut or vaporize soft tissue without the need for mechanical cutting instruments. This precise targeting allows for reduced bleeding, faster healing, and improved patient comfort during procedures such as gingivectomies or frenectomies.

In contrast, the other attachments mentioned serve different functions that do not focus on soft tissue cutting. The disposable prophy angle attachment is primarily used for polishing teeth and does not provide the cutting capabilities needed for soft tissue procedures. The air polisher is designed for stain removal on tooth surfaces and is not suitable for tissue management. Likewise, the air abrasion unit is used for removing enamel and dentin, making it more applicable to hard tissues rather than soft tissues. Each of these alternatives lacks the precision and specific functionality that the laser handpiece provides, highlighting why the laser handpiece attachment is the appropriate choice for controlled cutting in soft tissue.