{"id":33,"date":"2020-08-13T19:08:00","date_gmt":"2020-08-13T19:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kramerdmd.com\/blog\/?p=33"},"modified":"2024-09-24T04:05:59","modified_gmt":"2024-09-24T04:05:59","slug":"dental-instruments-your-dentist-uses-at-your-checkup","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kramerdmd.com\/blog\/dental-instruments-your-dentist-uses-at-your-checkup\/","title":{"rendered":"6 Instruments Your Dentist Uses During Your Check-Up"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Dentist<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Did you know that 48% of American adults are scared of the dentist? Plus, a whopping 22% skip routine care due to their dental phobia. Although each patient is different, a common contributor to feelings of anxiety are the tool involved. Since they are often unfamiliar, sharp, and headed straight toward the sensitive areas of your mouth, it\u2019s not hard to see why. Fortunately, you can read on for six common dental instruments your dentist<\/a> uses to help ease your fear!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Explorers and Probes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When your dental team begins your examination, the first two instruments they reach for are explorers and probes. A dental explorer is roughly the size of a pen and has a distinct, thin, hook-like tip at one or both ends. This tool is used to look for dental issues like cavities and plaque while simultaneously checking the condition of restorations (i.e., crowns, bridges, etc.). On the other hand, periodontal probes have rings marked in millimeter increments. This handy device is used to check your gum health by measuring gum recession.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dental Mirror<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For many patients, a dental mirror is the most recognizable (and least anxiety-inducing) instrument. It is about the same size as an explorer; however, it has a small, circular mirror on the end that comfortably fits inside a patient\u2019s mouth. Although simple, this tool allows your dental team to look at the hard to reach areas of your teeth and gums, which makes them especially helpful during exams, fillings, and cleanings!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scaler<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Scalers look extremely similar to explorers in both size and shape. However, scalers are uniquely different because they have a thicker hook that is designed to effectively remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Without this useful tool, the calculus could continue to build-up and lead to a number of dental issues, including cavities and gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The suction instruments your dentist uses throughout your appointments are extremely helpful for removing saliva, water, and tartar during your treatment. Depending on the level of suction needed, your dental team will use a saliva ejector or a high-volume suction, which will allow them to effectively work while simultaneously bypassing the concern of you accidentally swallowing something. Typically, this device gently hangs over your lower teeth or is held in place by a dental hygienist or assistant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Air\/Water Syringe<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To effectively remove debris from your mouth or dry your teeth, your dental team will use an air\/water syringe. This stainless-steel device can squirt air, water, or a combination of the two with a simple click of a button. Often, this instrument is used in tandem with the suction tool to effectively clean your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Polisher and Prophy Cup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A dental polisher is a stainless-steel wand that spins quickly when hooked up to a power supply. During a professional cleaning, a prophy cup is filled with polishing paste before getting attached to the rotating tip. From there, your dentist can efficiently remove plaque and clean the surface of each tooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At first, the tools your dental team uses can send chills down your spine. However, being familiar with the common instruments can ease your anxiety and help you relax!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About the Author<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dr. James K. Kramer<\/a> completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware before graduating with honors from the Temple University School of Dentistry as a Doctor of Dental Medicine. Today, Dr. Kramer has over three decades of experience under his belt, is a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry, and has attended advanced training at the prestigious Dawson Academy! If you are overdue for your bi-yearly appointment, don\u2019t hesitate to visit his website<\/a> or give him a call at 302-436-5133<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Did you know that 48% of American adults are scared of the dentist? Plus, a whopping 22% skip routine care due to their dental phobia. Although each patient is different, a common contributor to feelings of anxiety are the tool involved. Since they are often unfamiliar, sharp, and headed straight toward the sensitive areas of your mouth, it\u2019s not hard to see why. Fortunately, you can read on for six common dental instruments your dentist uses to help ease your fear! (Read More)<\/a>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-33","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"\n6 Instruments Your Dentist Uses During Your Check-Up l Dr. James Kramer<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you curious what tools your dentist uses at your routine appointment? 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