Diagnostic Tools
Before commencing treatment, a dentist must accurately diagnose the patient’s condition using the following tools:
- X-rays: These are employed to capture two-dimensional radiographic images of the teeth and jaws, and occasionally parts of the neck and skull. Traditional devices can produce images on film, or digital images can be acquired.
- Conical Beam: A type of CT scan, this device generates three-dimensional images of the teeth and jaws.
- Camera: A small video camera is inserted into the mouth to visualize the teeth and gum tissues, connected to a monitor to display captured images in real-time.
- Intraoral Mirror: This mirror is placed inside the mouth by the dentist to view areas that are otherwise inaccessible. It also helps redirect light within the oral cavity and can assist in retracting the cheeks, lips, and tongue.
- Dental Explorer: This instrument is used to examine teeth for signs of decay, calculus, or other dental diseases.
- Gum Probe: This tool is used to measure the depth of gum pockets in millimeters and assesses the condition of the surrounding areas of the teeth.
Surgical Instruments
A range of instruments is utilized by dentists during surgical procedures and dental treatments, including:
- CEREC: This technology is employed for crafting dental crowns for damaged or weakened teeth, enabling the dentist to fabricate and place the crown in a single visit due to its rapid production capabilities.
- Laser: Lasers are increasingly used in dental treatments and surgeries because they provide quick results and sterilize the tissue they come into contact with.
- Cotton Pliers: These are small tongs used for transferring materials into and out of the mouth, often for holding cotton products.
- Dental Forceps: This instrument is specifically designed for the extraction of teeth.
- Root Elevators: These tools provide support during tooth extractions by lifting the teeth prior to removal, minimizing the risk of injury at the extraction site.
- Ultrasonic Scaler: Dentists utilize ultrasonic scalers to remove calculus and tartar buildup from teeth.
- Drills: These instruments are employed to remove small amounts of tissue within the tooth.
- Spiked Pins: Used for removing tissue from inside a tooth.
- Hole Expanders: A set of instruments available in various sizes used to open and widen dental canals.
Orthodontic Tools
To ensure the best possible outcomes for patients receiving orthodontic care, dentists use the following instruments:
- Bite Sticks.
- Tooth Enamel Stripping Tools.
- Orthodontic Bands.
- Dental Cassette.
- Cutters and Pliers.
Additional Dental Instruments
Other tools frequently used by dentists include:
- Suction Devices: These instruments are utilized to remove saliva, debris, and tooth fragments from the oral cavity.
- Dental Drill: This tool is essential for removing decay from teeth.
- Molds: Small trays filled with material that are used to take impressions of the teeth.
- Polishing Tools: Employed for polishing teeth following cleaning procedures.
- Dental Syringe: This syringe is used to administer anesthetics to the teeth and gums prior to treatment.
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