A dental explorer(sickle probe) is an instrument in dentistry commonly used in the dental armamentarium. A sharp point at the end of the explorer is used to enhance tactile sensation.

For many years, it was advised that dentists use the explorer to determine the presence of tooth decay on enamel but recently, a few dental professionals have questioned this use. Since enamel is demineralized in the early stages of tooth decay, they argue the use of an explorer could cause a cavitation in the enamel where none existed previously. Instead, they argue that fluoride and dental hygiene should be used to remineralize and protect the enamel from any further progress of the decay. This debate still continues because sometimes decay can be difficult to diagnose without tactile verification. Additionally, radiographs and products designed to identify decay help the dental professional make a final diagnosis of tooth decay.

There are different types of explorers, though the most common one is the No. 23 explorer, which is also known as a "shepherd's hook." Other types include the 3CH (also known as "cowhorn" or "pigtail") and No. 17 explorers, which are useful for the interproximal areas between teeth.

See also

• Tooth
• Dentistry
• Dental cavities
• Dental hygiene
• Tooth enamel

References

• Summit, James B., J. William Robbins, and Richard S. Schwartz. "Fundamentals of Operative Dentistry: A Contemporary Approach." 2nd edition. Carol Stream, Illinois, Quintessence Publishing Co, Inc, 2001. ISBN 0867153822.

Dental equipment

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