What is the main purpose of cotton wool rolls in dental practice?

The main purpose of cotton wool rolls in dental practice is to absorb saliva. When performing dental procedures, it is essential to maintain a dry working area to ensure the effective application of treatments and materials. Cotton wool rolls are placed in the patient's mouth to absorb saliva and help keep the operative field free from moisture. This is particularly important during procedures such as fillings, extractions, and other dental treatments where saliva can interfere with the materials used or the visibility for the dentist.

While cotton wool rolls serve this crucial function, the other options represent different uses or misconceptions. Temporary fillings are typically placed using specific materials designed for that purpose, rather than cotton wool, which is not intended for use as a filling material. Preventing tooth decay involves oral hygiene practices, fluoride treatments, and dietary considerations, none of which are functions of cotton wool rolls. Lastly, dental instruments are used for specific tasks during procedures, and cotton wool rolls do not serve as replacements for these essential tools. Overall, the absorption of saliva remains the primary role of cotton wool rolls in dental settings.