What instrument would a dentist use to effectively perform an incision in soft tissue?

The most suitable instrument for performing an incision in soft tissue is a scalpel. A scalpel is a small, sharp knife designed specifically for surgical procedures, allowing for precise control and clean cuts in various soft tissues. Its fine blade can navigate through delicate areas while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues, which is crucial during surgical operations.

In contrast, other instruments listed serve different purposes. A surgical curette is primarily used for scraping tissue or debris from a surface, rather than making incisions. An elevator is utilized to lift or separate tissues, often during tooth extraction procedures, but is not designed for cutting. Anterior forceps are specialized for grasping and holding onto teeth, specifically the anterior teeth, and lack the sharp edge necessary for incisional work. Each of these instruments has a distinct function in dental procedures, highlighting the importance of selecting the proper tool for specific tasks in the clinical setting.