Final answer:
The operator blows around the light-bodied impression material to ensure it captures detailed dental structures, which helps to create a more accurate impression prior to the addition of the heavy-bodied material.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assisting with the final impression in a crown and bridge preparation, the operator may "blow" around the light-bodied impression material before inserting the heavy-bodied material. The purpose of this procedure is to aid in achieving a more accurate impression. This is done because a thin layer of light-bodied material can flow into the fine details of the prepared tooth and surrounding tissues, capturing the minutiae of the dental structures. Then, the heavy-bodied material is added to provide bulk and support for the impression, allowing it to be removed from the mouth without distortion.