What is the primary function of a hemostatic agent?

The primary function of a hemostatic agent is to stop bleeding. Hemostatic agents are specifically designed to aid in hemostasis, which is the process that prevents and stops bleeding. These agents work by promoting the coagulation of blood, either by facilitating the natural clotting process or by physically obstructing blood flow at the site of injury.

In dental practices, hemostatic agents are often used during surgical procedures, especially when there is a risk of excessive bleeding. By rapidly reducing blood loss, these agents help maintain the patient's stability and create a clearer surgical field, which is essential for the dentist to perform the procedure safely and effectively.

Other options focus on different actions. Promoting healing is a subsequent step that occurs after bleeding has been controlled. Cleaning the area is important for preventing infection and preparing for treatment but does not address bleeding directly. Numbing the area is relevant for pain management but is unrelated to the function of controlling hemorrhage. Thus, stopping bleeding is the definitive role of hemostatic agents in a clinical setting.