Dental Instruments: Functions and Importance

Dental Instruments: A Comprehensive Guide

Dental instruments are a crucial part of oral healthcare, as they are used in various dental treatments and procedures. These tools range from basic instruments like mouth mirrors and dental explorers to more advanced devices such as high-speed air turbine handpieces and ultrasonic instruments. In this article, we will discuss the various dental instruments used in dental clinics, their functions, and how they contribute to oral health.

Mouth Mirror

A mouth mirror, also known as a mouth mirror or dental mirror, is a vital tool in dental practice. It is used to indirectly view teeth that are difficult to see with the naked eye, particularly in areas like the back of molars. Mouth mirrors serve three purposes: indirect viewing, retraction, and light reflection, making them essential for dentists to examine the mouth and surrounding tissues effectively.

Dental Explorers (Sickle Probes)

Dental explorers, also known as sickle probes, are used by dentists to check teeth for tartar, damage, and other dental anomalies. Their name is easy to remember, as they are used to explore the patient's mouth for issues that may be concerning to them personally.

High-Speed Air Turbine Handpieces

High-speed air turbine handpieces are used for tooth preparation and can generate droplets and aerosols with various microorganisms that contribute to airborne bacterial contamination in dental clinics. These handpieces are the most frequently used dental devices and can lead to more serious droplet and aerosol pollution than ultrasonic devices.

Ultrasonic Instruments

Ultrasonic instruments are used in dental therapy and can generate aerosols and droplets with bacterial content. However, the sprays generated by ultrasonic devices mainly settle on the dominant arm of the operator, eyewear, and chest of the patient, with a lower concentration on the non-dominant arm and chest of the operator and assistant.

Dentist's Torque Wrench

A dentist's torque wrench, also known as a restorative torque wrench, is used to tighten parts of an implant or denture. It works similarly to a normal wrench, ensuring the parts are securely held in place.

Dental Bur (Drill Bit)

Dental burs, or drill bits, are essential for dental operations and therapy. They can be attached to the rotating dental workpiece to cut and grind both hard and soft tissue.

Sharpening Instruments

Sharpening instruments are used to maintain the sharpness and functionality of dental tools. This process is crucial as sharp instruments are more effective in scaling and removing dental deposits, reducing the risk of burnishing smaller pieces and minimizing operating time and patient discomfort.

In conclusion, dental instruments play a vital role in oral healthcare. They are designed to ensure efficient and accurate dental treatment, while also minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination. Proper maintenance and sharpening of these instruments are essential for maintaining their functionality and ensuring optimal patient care.