Dentists use a variety of tools to help them treat their patients. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common dental tools that you will find in a dentist’s office. We will also explain what each tool is used for and how it helps to improve patient care. So, if you are curious about what goes on behind the scenes in a dentist’s office, keep reading!
Dental Probe
The first tool is the dental probe, also known as sickle probe. This instrument looks like a pen with a pointed hook on one end and an angled handle at the other. It is used to explore areas of decay in teeth as well as any irregularities that may be present within tooth structures themselves such as cracks or chips caused by trauma or poor chewing habits over time (aka bruxism). The dental probe is also used to measure the depth of a cavity in order to determine what type of restoration is needed.
Curette or Scaler
The curette or scaler is used to remove plaque and calculus from teeth surfaces, but it has a somewhat different design than the explorer. It looks like a pen with a thin, curved point on either end. This instrument is used to scrape below the gum line and around teeth surfaces in order to remove built-up plaque and calculus. In some cases, a tartar scraper can also be used. A tartar scraper has a flat wedge instead of a curved point.
Dental Mirror
The dental mirror is a small, handheld mirror that has a metal or plastic handle with a reflective surface on one side. Dentists use it to see inside of the patient’s mouth and around teeth surfaces. This is especially helpful when assessing dental decay, root canals, or other abnormalities that may be present in the mouth. It is also used to help guide dental instruments or hold the cheeks and tongue out of the way during treatment procedures.
Tweezers or Forceps
Tweezers or forceps are used to remove objects from the mouth, such as an old dental restoration that has been dislodged during treatment. They can also be used to hold cotton to keep tissues in place and for other general purposes within the dental office. There are many different types of tweezers and forceps, but they all have one common purpose – they help make dentists’ jobs easier!
Dental Syringe
The dental syringe is a small, plastic syringe with a needle that is used to deliver dental anesthetics to the mouth. Although this is one of the more feared dental tools, it actually makes dental treatment much more comfortable for patients. The dental anesthetics numbs the area where the injection is administered, which makes it much less painful when a dentist is performing a procedure.
Dental Molds
Dental molds are made from plaster and are used as a model to create crowns, bridges, or other dental restorations. They are often made from casts of teeth and gums so they can be customized according to each patient’s needs. These casts are made by taking a dental impression, which involves placing trays filled with a thick liquid into the open mouth, biting down, and then removing it once it has hardened.
In this blog post, we have discussed some of the most common dental tools that you will find in a dentist’s office. We have explained what each tool is used for and how it helps to improve patient care. Although some of these tools may seem scary at first, they are all used to help make dental treatment more comfortable for patients. Thanks for reading!
