National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Question: 1 / 400

Which instrument is primarily used for probing periodontal pockets?

Explorer

Probe

The instrument primarily used for probing periodontal pockets is the probe. A periodontal probe is specifically designed to measure the depth of the pockets surrounding each tooth, allowing dental professionals to assess the health of the gingiva and the presence of periodontal disease. The probe is marked with calibrated measurements that enable precise depth readings, which are crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.

An explorer, while helpful in assessing the texture and contour of the tooth surface, is not designed specifically for measuring pocket depths. A scalpel is utilized for surgical procedures and incisions in soft tissue, while a curette is primarily employed for scaling and root planing, not for measuring pocket depths. Understanding the proper use and purpose of these tools is essential for effective periodontal assessment and management.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Scalpel

Curette

Next Question

Report this question

Download National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy