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← Periodontology / 4th Year / BDS

LOOK CLOSELY / UNDERSTAND CLEARLY

Periodontal probe

Recognise graduated periodontal probes and explain what charted measurements represent.

REFERENCE GALLERY1 / 1 reference
Periodontal instrument comparison — graduated probe at left
100%
1
Graduated working tip

The marked terminal portion on the left-hand reference.

Zoom in, then drag to inspect. Keyboard: + / − to zoom, arrows to pan, 0 to reset. Tap the numbered markers to explore parts.

Periodontal instrument comparison — graduated probe at left

Image: No machine-readable author provided. Dozenist assumed (based on copyright claims). · Source / original · CC BY-SA 3.0

Resized and converted to WebP; original colours retained.

Periodontal probe

Identify and explain

A probe records distances against a reference landmark; probing depth and clinical attachment level are different measurements.

  • Graduated working tip
  • Angled shank
  • Handle
1

Identify

Compare working tips, graduations and shanks in the reference.

2

Measure conceptually

Distinguish gingival-margin to pocket-base depth from attachment level relative to a stable landmark.

3

Interpret

Integrate bleeding, recession, other findings and measurement limitations.

At the viva table

Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.

01 / Are probing depth and attachment level the same?

No. They use different reference points.

02 / Why check probe markings?

Graduation patterns differ between designs.

03 / Does one deep reading alone give a complete diagnosis?

No. A full assessment and context are needed.

04 / Can technique affect readings?

Yes. Angulation, force, inflammation and access can influence them.

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