Periodontal Probe
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The periodontal probe is a narrow rounded or flat, blunt-ended, graduated instrument. Due to its blunt end, it can be inserted into the gingival sulcus without causing trauma.
The periodontal probe is used to:
- Measure periodontal probing depth
- Determine degree of gingival inflammation by gentle probing
- Measure gingival attachment loss (recession)
- Evaluate furcation lesions
- Evaluate extent of tooth mobility
The markings on the probe 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 markings represent by comparing the probe to a ruler.