Some of the plastic probes have pressure indicators that show the clinician when the appropriate amount of pressure is being used. In the past, most probes were manufactured from stainless or carbon steel metal but many companies are now offering plastic probes for use with implants and for increased patient comfort. Probe shanks may be flat, angled to access posterior regions, or curved (Nabers furcation probe). The PSR probe, modeled on the World Health Organization probe, has a small ball on the end, which improves patient comfort. Probe tips can be circular or rectangular in cross-section. NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENTSĬalibrated periodontal probes are marked in a variety of millimeter configurations and have many functions in the periodontal assessment. Many submarginal scaling instruments are designed with shorter, thinner working ends to allow access to deep, narrow periodontal pockets. There is tremendous variation in the working end of dental hygiene instruments based on their usage, including differences in toe and tip length, angulation, cutting edges, and working strength. Most instruments are designed for use with the terminal shank parallel to the root or crown being instrumented. A terminal shank extends between the working end and the first bend of the shank. Flexible, thinner shanks provide greater tactile sensitivity and are used in the removal of fine calculus deposits and root debridement. Rigid, thick shanks are for removal of heavy calculus deposits. Long or extended shanks are designed to access deep periodontal pockets. The more complex or angled shanks are designed for areas that are more difficult to access, such as the posterior teeth. 1 In general, simple shanks are designed for use in areas of easy access like the anterior teeth. The shanks of an instrument are classified as simple (straight) or complex (angled). Balancing allows the finger pressure to be transferred more effectively to the working end, reducing muscle stress on the hands and arms. Balance-working ends are aligned with the long axis of the handle. Texture-texturing increases control and lessens hand fatigue.Ĥ. Large diameters are easier to hold and may reduce muscle fatigue.ģ. Diameter-ranges from 3/8” to 3/16” and may be round or hexagonal in cross-section. Weight-hollow handles are lightweight and improve tactile sensitivity.Ģ. Several factors determine the ease and comfort of instrument handle use:ġ. Color-coding adds ease of identification of specific instruments in the tray set-up (Figure 1). 1 Many manufacturers offer a choice of metal or resin handles. Handles with larger diameters may prevent finger cramping and reduce hand fatigue. HANDLE CHOICEĪ primary consideration in handle choice is clinician comfort, which is critical to lessen the effect of repetitive strain injuries. Some clinicians were also trained in the use of hoes and chisels but these instruments have largely been replaced by power instruments (ultrasonic and sonic scalers). Periodontal treatment hand instruments include curets, sickle scalers, and periodontal files. Assessment hand instruments include mouth mirrors, periodontal probes, and explorers. Assessment instruments are used to gather clinical data that allow the clinician to analyze the oral and periodontal health of the patient. Designs and materials of hand instruments for dental hygiene treatment are constantly changing and improving, providing dental hygienists with the challenge of finding the right instrument for each clinical situation.ĭental hygiene hand instruments can be divided into assessment and treatment categories. The growing awareness of the link between oral and systemic health has increased the importance of providing accurate, complete, and comfortable periodontal assessment and treatment.
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