Which dental instrument is used for mixing materials, such as impression material?

The flexible spatula is specifically designed for mixing dental materials, including impression materials, because of its flexibility and shape, which allow for effective blending without leaving behind any material clinging to the spatula. It typically features a flat, flexible blade that can easily scrape and fold materials together to achieve a homogeneous mixture, crucial for obtaining accurate impressions in dental procedures.

While a mixing bowl is also an important instrument for holding materials during mixing, it does not perform the actual mixing function. The cement spatula focuses on mixing dental cements, which although similar in use, is not ideally suited for the specific needs of mixing all types of impression materials like a flexible spatula. Articulating paper serves a completely different purpose, being used to check occlusion and not for mixing materials at all. Understanding the specific functions of these instruments is key to mastering chairside assisting in dentistry.