Dental Probes
Dental Probes
Types, Uses & Premium Instruments for Accurate Diagnosis
What is a dental probe
A dental probe is a diagnostic instrument used by dentists to examine teeth and gum health, measure periodontal pocket depths, and detect plaque, calculus, or caries. Crafted from AISI 420 surgical-grade stainless steel, these precision tools provide high tactile sensitivity, enabling dental professionals to identify even the smallest surface irregularities.
- Commonly used during oral exams, dental probes help detect periodontal diseases, tooth decay, and restoration defects, guiding accurate treatment decisions
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We offer a wide range of precision-engineered diagnostic tools, including periodontal probes, explorer probes, Briault probes, and furcation probes — each designed for accuracy, comfort, and long-lasting performance in professional dental environments.
Types of Dental Probes and Their Functions
Each type of dental probe serves a specific diagnostic purpose. Below are the most common instruments used by professionals:
Periodontal Probe (Perio Probe)
The Periodontal Probe — also known as a Perio Probe — is a key diagnostic instrument used to measure gum pocket depth and assess periodontal health.
Common types:
- Williams Probe
- UNC Probe
- WHO Probe
Has millimeter markings for precise measurements.
Furcation Probe
Used to assess bone loss in multirooted teeth and furcation involvement.
Common Types:
- Nabers 1N (Gentle curve – Maxillary molars)
- Nabers 2N (Slightly different curvature – Mandibular molars)
- Nabers 3N (More pronounced curvature – Deep furcations)
- Nabers 4N (Extended reach – Advanced access)
- CP-12F / UNC-12 (Calibrated markings – Precise measurement)
Furcation Probe
Used to assess bone loss in multirooted teeth and furcation involvement.
Common Types:
- Nabers 1N (Gentle curve – Maxillary molars)
- Nabers 2N (Slightly different curvature – Mandibular molars)
- Nabers 3N (More pronounced curvature – Deep furcations)
- Nabers 4N (Extended reach – Advanced access)
- CP-12F / UNC-12 (Calibrated markings – Precise measurement)
- How to Choose the Right Dental Probe
- Purpose: Periodontal for gum measurement, Explorer for caries detection, Briault for contact areas.
- Handle Design: Choose ergonomic, non-slip handles for better control.
- Material: AISI 420 stainless steel ensures corrosion resistance.
- Sterilization Compatibility: Ensure the probe is fully autoclavable.
- Markings: Millimeter calibration for accurate periodontal assessment.
- Dental Probe Uses
- Long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance
- Detecting cavities and enamel irregularities
- Checking restoration margins
- Evaluating furcation involvement
- Guiding dental scaling and cleaning procedures
- Dental Probe Uses
- Long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance
- Detecting cavities and enamel irregularities
- Checking restoration margins
- Evaluating furcation involvement
- Guiding dental scaling and cleaning procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally no. Gentle probing may cause mild discCan omfort if inflammation is present, but it isn’t painful.
Williams, UNC, WHO, Briault, and Explorer are the most common types.
Yes. Stainless steel dental probes are autoclavable and designed for repeated sterilization.
A dental probe measures pocket depth, while an explorer detects caries and calculus.
Professional Grade Perio Probes - Ready To Ship
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Dental Probes, Periodontal Probe, Shop Instruments, WHO Probe
WHO Periodontal Probe – Single Ended | AISI 420 Stainless Steel
Original price was: 12.50 $.8.75 $Current price is: 8.75 $. -
Dental Probes, Periodontal Probe, Shop Instruments, UNC Periodontal Probe
UNC-15 Periodontal Probe – Single Ended | AISI 420 Stainless Steel
Original price was: 12.50 $.8.75 $Current price is: 8.75 $. -
Dental Probes, Periodontal Probe, Shop Instruments, Williams Periodontal Probe
Dental Periodontal Probe Williams Explorer 23 Double Ended Diagnostic Instrument
Original price was: 12.50 $.9.25 $Current price is: 9.25 $. -
Dental Probes, Periodontal Probe, Shop Instruments, WHO Probe
Double-Ended #23 Explorer + 3-6-9-12 WHO Probe (AISI 420 Stainless Steel)
Original price was: 12.50 $.9.25 $Current price is: 9.25 $. -
Dental Probes, Periodontal Probe, Shop Instruments, Williams Periodontal Probe
Double-Ended Goldman Fox Williams Probe / #23 Explorer (AISI 420 Stainless Steel)
Original price was: 12.50 $.9.25 $Current price is: 9.25 $.
Why Dental Explorers Are Not Probes?
In strict dental terminology, “explorers” are not true probes.
The confusion arises because some brands or suppliers casually label them as “probes” (especially “Briault probe” or “explorer probe”), but functionally and scientifically, they belong to different instrument categories.
Purpose and Function
- Probes are measuring instruments — used to measure the depth of periodontal pockets and assess gum health.
- Explorers are detection instruments — used to feel for irregularities like caries, calculus, or defective margins on teeth.
In short:
- Probe = measures
- Explorer = detects
Tip Design
- Probes have a blunt or rounded tip with millimeter markings for measuring.
- Explorers have a very fine, sharp, flexible tip designed to tactilely sense roughness or soft carious spots on tooth surfaces.
Example:
- Periodontal Probe (UNC 15): Marked 1–15 mm for pocket depth.
- Explorer #23 (“Shepherd’s Hook”): Sharp curved tip for detecting cavities.
Measurement Markings
- Probes: Always feature engraved or colored millimeter markings.
- Explorers: No markings — because they don’t measure, they only feel for surface changes.
Clinical Application
- Probes: Used mainly in periodontal exams and scaling procedures to record pocket depths and attachment levels.
- Explorers: Used in diagnostic exams for caries detection, checking restorations, and tooth surface exploration.
Handle and Sensitivity
Both have lightweight handles, but explorers are made to give maximum tactile feedback, while probes are made for precise depth reading
| Feature | Periodontal / Furcation Probe | Dental Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Measures pocket depth, attachment loss | Detects caries, calculus, or surface irregularities |
| Tip | Blunt/rounded, calibrated | Sharp, fine, flexible |
| Markings | Yes (1–15 mm or 3-6-9-12 mm) | No |
| Type | Measuring instrument | Detection instrument |
| Common Models | Williams, UNC, Nabers | #17, #23 (Shepherd’s Hook), Briault |
Add Dental Explorer To Your Kit
Explorers (Detection Instruments)
Used to detect tooth decay, irregularities, or calculus buildup on tooth surfaces.
- Explorer (General):
- Has a fine, sharp, flexible tip designed to detect caries, overhanging restorations, or calculus.
- Common types: No. 17 Explorer, Shepherd’s Hook, 11/12 Explorer.
- Has a fine, sharp, flexible tip designed to detect caries, overhanging restorations, or calculus.
➤ Used during dental examinations and scaling procedures.
Briault Explorer (often called “Briault Probe”)
- A curved, double-ended explorer designed for detecting interproximal caries (between teeth).
- The term “Briault probe” is technically a misnomer, but it is widely used in trade or catalog contexts.
➤ Ideal for detecting decay where direct vision is difficult.
Upgrade Your Diagnostic Toolkit with Precision Dental Probes
Trusted by dental professionals worldwide for accuracy, comfort, and durability.
- Crafted from AISI 420 stainless steel
- CE / ISO Certified
- Available for fast worldwide delivery
- Why Choose WeCare Surgical
- Long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance
- Designed for comfort and precision
- Laser-engraved for permanent visibility
- Safe and reusable after sterilization
- Factory-direct rates for clinics and distributors
- Order & Shipping Information
- Available for: Single & Bulk Orders
- Dispatch Time: Within 10 Days (Depends on Order)
- Global Delivery: Available worldwide via DHL / FedEx
- Packaging: Sterile, sealed pouches
- Payment: Secure online checkout (PayPal, Wire Transfer)
- Order & Shipping Information
- Available for: Single & Bulk Orders
- Dispatch Time: Within 10 Days (Depends on Order)
- Global Delivery: Available worldwide via DHL / FedEx
- Packaging: Sterile, sealed pouches
- Payment: Secure online checkout (PayPal, Wire Transfer)