g. Periodontal Probe (PROBE, PERIODONTAL). A periodontal probe (figure
4-6) is used to locate and measure the depth of a gingival crevice or periodontal pocket.
The probe is also used to measure the loss of attachment of the tooth. A probe is round
or flat and marked in millimeters on the side. A probe is color coded for easy
identification. Some examples of periodontal probes are the Goldman-Fox (flat), Nabers
(flat), Glickman (round), Michigan O (round), and Williams (round).
Figure 4-6. Periodontal probe.
h. Chisel (CHISEL, DENTAL). A chisel (figure 4-7) is used to remove heavy
supragingival calculus from the proximal surfaces of anterior teeth when the embrasure
spaces are open. A push horizontal stroke from facial to lingual is used to dislodge the
calculus on the proximal surfaces. The Ochsenbein 1, 2, TG, and TGO and Chandler
bone chisel C1, C4, and C7 are some examples of chisels.
Figure 4-7. Chisels.
i. Periodontal Knife (KNIFE, PERIODONTAL). A periodontal knife is used to
incise gingival tissues. The knife must be sharp to function properly and must not be
allowed to touch other instruments or be dropped on a hard surface (floor, sink, and so forth).
The knife must be sharpened after each surgical procedure and before sterilization. To
prevent accidents, special care must be taken when preparing and wrapping the knife for
sterilization.
MD0503
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