3-16. SUTURE NEEDLES (NEEDLE, SUTURE)
Many different types of suture material can be attached to different shapes and
sizes of needles. Suture needles are use to carry suture material through soft tissue
which, when tied, will hold tissue parts together for initial healing. Suture needles are
available in a variety of sizes and forms listed in the Medical Supply Catalog under class
6615 items. Figure 3-24 shows an example of a needle and suture material.
Figure 3-24. Suture material and needle.
3-17. GINGIVAL RETRACTORS (RETRACTOR, GINGIVAL)
Gingival retractors are used to hold gingival flaps back and out of the way to
expose operative areas. Thoma gingival retractors 1 and 2 are two-pronged, fork-like
retractors. Instruments designed for other purposes, such as periosteal elevators (figure
3-16), are also used as retractors.
3-18. IRRIGATING SYRINGE (SYRINGE, IRRIGATING, DENTAL)
Irrigating syringes (figure 3-25) are used to wash pus, debris, and other extraneous
material from tooth sockets, cavities, or inflamed gingival flaps. The tip is usually metal
and should be blunt. If a syringe with a glass barrel is used, particular care must be
exercised; the glass barrel could shatter if it is hit with a surgical bur.
Figure 3-25. Irrigating syringes.
MD0503
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