What instrument is used for the placement of elastomeric ligature ties?

The instrument used for the placement of elastomeric ligature ties is the locking hemostat. This tool is specifically designed with a locking mechanism that allows the dental professional to grasp and control small, delicate items securely, which is essential when working with ligature ties that are often used in orthodontic procedures to hold archwires in place on brackets.

The locking hemostat provides the precision needed to maneuver the ligature ties without releasing them unexpectedly, which ensures accurate placement and minimizes the risk of damage to the surrounding tissues or the ties themselves. This capability is especially important in orthodontics, where careful tie placement contributes to effective treatment outcomes.

In contrast, the other instruments listed do not possess the necessary features for this specific task. Standard hemostats lack the locking mechanism, preventing them from securely holding the ties during placement. A periosteal elevator is primarily used for lifting the periosteum away from the bone and does not have the appropriate design for tying elastomeric ligatures. Scissors, while they can cut ligature ties to the desired length, do not offer the grasping or placement functionality required for proper application.