Periodontal Probe
A calibrated, blunt-tipped instrument used to measure probing depth, assess clinical attachment level, and detect bleeding, calculus, and furcation involvement. The defining tool of periodontal examination.
Full Definition
A periodontal probe is a thin, blunt-ended, graduated instrument that is gently inserted into the gingival sulcus or pocket parallel to the long axis of the tooth to measure pocket depth, detect subgingival calculus, identify furcation involvement, and assess tissue characteristics such as bleeding on probing. Standard probes are marked in millimetre increments, with various designs (Williams, UNC-15, WHO/CPITN) each having specific graduation patterns relevant to recording and reporting. Editors reviewing clinical protocols should confirm that the probe type is identified in the methods section. 'Periodontal probe' and 'explorer' are distinct instruments and should not be conflated. Automated electronic probes may also be referenced in research contexts.
Usage
Usage note: Specify probe type (e.g., UNC-15, Williams) in clinical research methods sections. Do not confuse with 'explorer,' which is a sharp-tipped diagnostic instrument, not for measuring depth.
In Context
- "A UNC-15 periodontal probe was used to record six measurements per tooth at baseline and all recall appointments." — Clinical research protocol
- "The text referred to a 'dental explorer' when the clinical context clearly called for a 'periodontal probe'; the editor corrected accordingly." — Copy-editing note