What is a periodontal probe used for?

A periodontal probe is an essential instrument in dentistry specifically designed to measure the depth of the sulcus or periodontal pocket surrounding a tooth. By assessing these depths, dental professionals can determine the presence and severity of periodontal disease. Healthy gums typically have a sulcus depth of 1-3 mm, but greater depths can indicate periodontal issues, requiring further evaluation and treatment.

The ability to accurately measure these depths is crucial for diagnosing periodontal conditions, planning treatment, and monitoring changes over time, making the probe indispensable in periodontal assessments. This measurement helps in formulating a treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific gum health and needs.

The other options involve functions not related to the primary purpose of a periodontal probe. For instance, anesthesia is administered using syringes or topical applicators, tooth extraction requires specialized tools like forceps, and plaque removal is performed with scalers or ultrasonic instruments rather than a probe.