Which of the following instruments is typically used to pack amalgam in dental procedures?

The amalgam plugger is designed specifically for packing and condensing dental amalgam into cavity preparations. This instrument typically has a rounded or flat working end that allows dental professionals to effectively compress the amalgam material into place, ensuring proper adaptation to the walls of the cavity and minimizing the risk of voids or air bubbles. Proper packing is essential for the longevity and effectiveness of the dental restoration.

In contrast, the burnisher is primarily used to smooth and polish the surface of dental materials, while the curette is used for scaling and root planing during periodontal procedures. The dental mirror is utilized for visualizing the oral cavity and assisting in treatment but does not come into direct contact with filling materials. Each of these instruments has a specific role in dental practice, but the amalgam plugger stands out for its specialized function in the manipulation of amalgam during restorative procedures.