Which type of forceps can be used on both sides of the dental arch?

Universal forceps are specifically designed to be versatile, allowing them to effectively grasp and extract teeth from both the maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) arches. Their design enables the same instrument to be used on different types of teeth, regardless of their location in the mouth. This adaptability is crucial in dental practices, as it saves time and reduces the need for multiple specialized tools during the extraction process.

Maxillary forceps and mandibular forceps, on the other hand, are tailored for specific uses within either the upper or lower jaw. This means they may not work as effectively when applied to the opposite arch, limiting their usability compared to universal forceps. Surgical forceps, while also specialized for certain procedures, do not have the same versatility in accessing both arches as universal forceps do. Thus, the ability of universal forceps to function effectively on both sides of the dental arch is what makes them the correct choice in this context.