Which instrument is specifically designed for placing, carving, and contouring amalgam?

The Hollenbeck instrument is specifically designed for placing, carving, and contouring amalgam in dental procedures. Its unique shape features a double-ended design with various working ends that allow for precision in shaping and manipulating the amalgam material. The flat blades are perfect for carving and adjusting the surface of the amalgam to achieve the desired anatomical contours, which is vital for the function and aesthetics of the dental restoration.

In contrast, the Woodson instrument is primarily used for placing and condensing materials but does not have the specific features needed for direct carving and contouring, which sets the Hollenbeck apart. The Acorn burnisher is typically used for smoothing restorative materials, while the curettage instrument is mainly utilized for scraping and cleaning in periodontal procedures rather than working with amalgam. This distinction clearly highlights why the Hollenbeck instrument is the correct choice for this task.