What tool is used for flap elevation?

• A. Scalpel
• B. Periosteal elevators
• C. Elevators
• D. Saws

Answer: (B)

The main concept is selecting the instrument that safely reflects soft tissue away from bone during flap elevation. Periosteal elevators are specifically designed to lift the periosteum and attached mucosa off the underlying bone, allowing a clean, atraumatic reflection of the flap. The blade is thin and often curved, so it can slide under the flap from the crest toward the sulcus and gently separate the soft tissue along the periosteal plane. A scalpel is used to create incisions but not to continue lifting the flap; saws cut bone, not soft tissue; and while other elevators exist, they don’t provide the targeted grip and separation needed for flap reflection.