Changes

[[File:Modified pen grip.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Correct way to hold a periodontal probe, modified pen grip.<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]

[[File:Modified pen grip.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Correct way to hold a periodontal probe, modified pen grip.<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]

[[File:Periodontal probe 3.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Periodontal probe (14W type) showing graduations of the tip<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]

[[File:Periodontal probe 3.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Periodontal probe (14W type) showing graduations of the tip<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]

The periodontal probe is a narrow rounded or flat, blunt-ended, graduated instrument. Due to its blunt end, it can be inserted into the [[Gingiva|gingival]] sulcus without causing trauma.  

The periodontal probe is a narrow rounded or flat, blunt-ended, graduated instrument. Due to its blunt end, it can be inserted into the [[Gingiva|gingival]] sulcus without causing trauma.  

The periodontal probe is used to:

The periodontal probe is used to:

*Measure periodontal probing depth  

*Measure [[Dental Indices and Criteria#Periodontal Probing Depth (PPD)|periodontal probing depth]]

*Determine degree of gingival inflammation by gentle probing

*Determine degree of gingival inflammation by gentle probing

*Measure gingival attachment loss (recession)  

*Measure [[Dental Indices and Criteria#Gingival Recession|gingival attachment loss (recession)]]

*Evaluate furcation lesions

*Evaluate [[Dental Indices and Criteria#Furcation Involvement|furcation lesions]]

*Evaluate extent of tooth mobility

*Evaluate extent of [[Dental Indices and Criteria#Tooth Mobility|tooth mobility]]

The markings are either engraved rings or colour coded bands. A screening probe for example has 3 or 4mm banded block markings whilst a Williams periodontal probe is more accurate with mm markings. Before using the probe, the operator should ensure that they know what the marking represent by comparing it do a ruler.  

The markings are either engraved rings or colour coded bands. A screening probe for example has 3 or 4mm banded block markings whilst a Williams periodontal probe is more accurate with mm markings. Before using the probe, the operator should ensure that they know what the marking represent by comparing it do a ruler.  

[[Category:Dental Instruments]]

[[Category:Dental Instruments]]

[[Category:To Do - Dentistry Images]]

[[Category:To Do - Dentistry preMars]]