Dental Probe

A dental probe is a thin, hand-held instrument with a rounded or pointed tip, used by dental professionals to measure the depth of periodontal (gum) pockets and assess the health of the gums. Probes feature millimeter markings to accurately gauge pocket depth and can be manually, electronically, or laser-powered, with manual probes being the most common. Sizes and markings vary widely by design, with common examples including the Williams probe (1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 mm) and the CP-12 probe (1 mm increments up to 12 mm).
Description of a Dental Probe
Material:
Typically made from surgical-grade stainless steel for durability and to withstand sterilization.
Tip:
Has a thin, blunt, or pointed tip, depending on the probe type, designed to not damage gum tissue.
Markings:
Calibrated millimeter markings allow for precise measurement of pocket depth.
Handle:
Features an ergonomic handle for comfortable and precise handling.
Double-ended:
Many probes are double-ended, allowing for flexibility during dental examinations.