Which item is specifically used to hold liquids such as prime and bond in dental work?

The item specifically used to hold liquids such as prime and bond in dental work is a dappen dish. This small glass or plastic dish is designed to hold materials in a way that allows for easy access and mixing, particularly for dental adhesives, bonding agents, or other liquid materials. The shallow design and small size make it ideal for providing a manageable amount of liquid, which can be picked up easily with a brush or applicator.

In contrast, other instruments serve different purposes. For example, a spoon excavator is primarily used for removing decay or debris from cavities rather than holding liquids. A cement spatula is intended for mixing dental materials, while a matrix band is used to create a temporary wall to contain filling material during procedures. None of these items are utilized for directly holding liquids in the same way the dappen dish is.