Dental instruments play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, particularly during routine cleanings. These specialized tools allow dental professionals to effectively clean teeth, remove plaque and tartar, and ensure the overall health of the gums. Here’s a look at some of the primary instruments used during routine dental cleanings:
1. Mirror: The dental mirror is a small, angled mirror that allows dentists and hygienists to see areas of the mouth that are difficult to view directly. It helps in visualizing the back of teeth, inside surfaces, and other hard-to-see areas, ensuring a thorough examination and cleaning.
2. Scaler: The scaler is a sharp, hooked instrument used to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth, particularly along the gumline and between the teeth. There are different types of scalers, including manual scalers and ultrasonic scalers, which use high-frequency vibrations to break down and remove deposits.
3. Curette: Similar to the scaler, the curette is used to remove plaque and tartar but is designed with a rounded end to clean below the gumline more comfortably. This instrument is essential for deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to treat gum disease.
4. Prophy Cup and Paste: The prophy cup is a small, rubbery cup attached to a slow-speed handpiece. It is used with a gritty toothpaste-like substance called prophy paste to polish the teeth. Polishing helps remove surface stains and smoothens the teeth, making it harder for plaque to accumulate.
5. Saliva Ejector: The saliva ejector is a small, flexible tube that removes saliva and water from the mouth during cleaning. This keeps the working area dry and improves visibility for the dental professional.
6. Suction Device: Often called a high-volume evacuator (HVE), this device removes larger debris, water, and saliva from the mouth, enhancing comfort and cleanliness during the procedure.
7. Air-Water Syringe: The air-water syringe provides a controlled stream of air or water to rinse away debris and dry the teeth during the cleaning process. It helps keep the mouth clean and improves visibility.
8. Explorer: The explorer, or sickle probe, is a sharp-ended tool used to detect cavities, check for soft areas in the enamel, and identify other potential issues. It is also useful for removing small bits of debris from between the teeth.
Regular dental cleanings are vital for maintaining oral health, and the use of these instruments ensures a thorough and effective process. By understanding the tools and their functions, patients can feel more at ease during their dental visits, knowing they are receiving the best possible care for their teeth and gums.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about the beautiful smiles Dr. Sukari McMiller has created visit us online today at www.dreamworksdentalcare.com.
Dr. Sukari McMiller proudly serves patients from Fayetteville and all surrounding areas.