Explorers Module

Introduction

• Explorers are vital tools for clinicians in dental assessments and treatment.
• Used to gather information on tooth roots, calculus, restorations, and anomalies.

Uses of Explorers

• Assessment:
  • Detect calculus type, amount, and location.
  • Identify irregularities and tooth anomalies.
  • Evaluate restorations and margins.
• Treatment:
  • Check effectiveness of calculus removal.
  • Used before, during, and after scaling.

Exploration Process

• Explorers conduct vibrations to the clinician’s fingers, aiding in assessing what cannot be seen.
• Requires tactile sensitivity to differentiate between tooth surface irregularities.

Explorer Design

• Fine wirelike working ends with a flexible shank.
• Circular in cross-section with paired or unpaired working ends.
• Examples:
  • Paired: 11/12 Explorer.
  • Unpaired: 23 Explorer (Shepherd’s Hook with a probe).

Functionality of Explorers

• Used for detecting subgingival calculus and root irregularities.
• The last 1-2 mm of the Explorer tip is used for detection.

Types of Explorers

• Shepherd’s Hook (#23): Carries detection, only supra gingival.
• 11/12 Explorer: For subgingival use, detects root surface irregularities.

Variations in Explorer Design

• Various designs for specific uses like detecting biofilm retentive factors.
• Example: EXD 11/12 is ideal for both anterior and posterior regions.

Subgingival vs. Supragingival

• Supragingival: Above gum line, for restoration and sealant assessment.
• Subgingival: Below gum line, for calculus detection.

Caries Detection

• Using Shepherd’s Hook (23) or straight explorers to identify caries.
• Light pressure is essential to avoid worsening carious lesions.

Calculus and Plaque Detection

• Calculus builds up over time and is either supra or subgingival.
• Super Gingival: Visible with air drying, found on lingual of mandibular anteriors and buccal of maxillary molars.
• Subgingival: Detected by feel, may be more tenacious.

Assessment Strokes

• Light grasp required for tactile sensitivity.
• Fluid, sweeping strokes with multiple directions for thorough assessment.
• Different errors to avoid such as too much pressure or improper adaptation.

Explorer Techniques

• Posterior Teeth: Start from distal, use correct working end (V towards distal).
• Anterior Teeth: Select working end that wraps around the tooth.

Errors and Practice

• Common errors include improper adaptation and excessive pressure.
• Importance of systematic approach and practice for skill development.

Conclusion

• Explorers are essential for effective dental assessments and treatments.
• Practice is crucial to mastering tactile sensitivity and proper usage of explorers.

For further information or clarification, reach out to your instructor.