Dental Explorer

A dental explorer is an instrument used in dental armamentarium. The tip of the explorer is sharp and is used for exploration of the enamel surfaces. A dental explorer is also called a sickle probe.

Dentist use dental explorers for search of tooth decay on the enamel surfaces. When tooth decay hits a tooth, the enamel is demineralized. This can often be felt using the dental explorer. This is what the dentist uses when he ‘pokes’ your teeth looking for cavities.

There are other methods to look for decay, like x-rays and lasers. But the most basic and direct way is to use the dental explorer. Usually a dental explorer is used along side a dental mirror.

To prevent this decay, proper oral health measures, including brushing, flossing and the use of fluoride is very important. If you want to avoid going to the dentist and having cavities filled, make sure you do these things and you will be on your way to dental health.

If you are a dental healthcare provider, you may be interested in purchasing dental explorers. There are many different types of dental explorers, most notably the No. 23, which is known as a “shepherd’s hook”. Also, there is the 3CH (‘pigtail’) and No. 17. The no. 17 is good for interproximal areas (between the teeth).