Probe Demonstration on Patient

When using the probe, there are 3 steps to remember.  The first step is to rest the probe on the contact, the second step is to adapt the tip to the tooth surface and the third step is to gently insert the tip to the base of the pocket.  There are 6 probing depth readings per tooth, three on the lingual and three on the buccal.  The first reading begins in the col area and progresses to the first line angle; noting the deepest reading in that area.  The second reading is the deepest measurement from line angle to line angle.  The third reading is the deepest measurement from the line angle to the col area. It is important to consider the curvature of the tooth and make the necessary adjustments to keep the tip touching the tooth at all times. Developing tactile sensitivity to recognize calculus and restorations compared to the normal gingival sulcus will come with practice.

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