When you visit your dentist every six months for an exam and checkup, your dentist and their team rely on a wide variety of instruments. However, these shiny instruments are no reason to be intimidated! They assist your dentist in helping you achieve a healthy, bright smile. Familiarity with these instruments can ease your anxiety and allow you to be more relaxed during your visit. Read on to learn more about the most common dental instruments!
Dental Mirror
More than likely the most unintimidating of the tools, the dental mirror has three important uses. First, it allows your dentist to look at the hard-to-reach and dark areas of your mouth. Second, it reflects light onto specific surfaces in order to get a more revealing look at possible issues. Lastly, the dental mirror pulls your gums back for a deeper look at your mouth. This small but important tool plays an important role in your examination, allowing your dentist to clearly see any dental issues like cavities and gum disease.
Dental Probe
There are three different types of dental probes: straight, briault, and periodontal. Each one has a thin handle and sharp tip, either slightly curved or straight. When your dentist is examining your teeth looking for cavities, they will use the straight probe. The briault probe is used to detect tartar hidden in gum pockets. Lastly, the periodontal probe is able to examine the health of the roots of your teeth.
Suction
A suction device is an extremely helpful tool; it keeps your mouth clean while your dentist performs any necessary procedures or treatments. It removes saliva, water, tartar, and debris from your mouth. It allows your dental team to work more effectively and prevents you from accidentally swallowing something.
Scaler
With a hooked blade at the end, dental scalers can look rather intimidating. However, it is a safe device that prevents issues like tooth decay and gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup. It effectively scrapes the surface of each tooth and keeps them clean. This instrument is usually used towards the end of your professional cleaning.
Polisher
The final step of your biannual visit is to apply a polishing paste to your teeth. This mildly abrasive stain-buster will remove additional plaque and stubborn surface stains. One major perk of this tool is that it is both extremely effective and entirely painless.
As you can see, your dentist’s instruments are essential to help you achieve a healthy and bright smile!
About the Practice
Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry serve Orange Park and the surrounding areas through the expertise of Dr. Steven Crovatto and Dr. Megan Edwards. They offer a wide range of dentistry, including preventive services, to help you achieve the healthiest smile possible! With a goal of providing high-quality care, you can count on your pearly whites remaining in peak condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (904) 272-0800.