Which instrument is specifically used to contour a band around a tooth?

The instrument specifically used to contour a band around a tooth is band-removing pliers. These pliers are designed with a specific shape and action that allow for the careful and effective manipulation of orthodontic bands during their placement. When fitting a band on a tooth, contouring is essential to ensure it properly adapts to the tooth's surface, allowing for optimal fit and comfort. The unique design of band-removing pliers aids in shaping the band to accommodate the contours of the tooth, which is crucial for both patient comfort and the effectiveness of the orthodontic treatment.

Other instruments listed serve different purposes in dental assisting. For instance, Weingart utility pliers are commonly used for holding and bending wires but are not specifically designed for contouring bands. Elastic separators are used to create space between teeth prior to the placement of bands or other orthodontic appliances, and dental floss is primarily used for cleaning teeth and removing debris, rather than for working with orthodontic bands. Thus, the role of band-removing pliers in contouring bands directly correlates to their specialized design and intended use in orthodontic procedures.