How to use the Gracey 13/14 Curette

Martha Macaluso
15 Jun 202003:50
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRThe video provides a detailed tutorial on the proper use of the Gracie 13:14 curette, a dental instrument designed for cleaning the distal aspects of molars and premolars. The presenter explains how to identify the correct working end by observing the instrument's parallel alignment to the tooth's long axis and the formation of a 'V' shape on the distal aspect. Emphasis is placed on using the toe third of the instrument and maintaining a 70 to 80-degree angle while rolling it into the proximal space to effectively remove calculus. The demonstration ensures viewers understand the technique for efficient dental hygiene.

Takeaways
  • 🧐 The Gracie 13:14 curette is a dental instrument specifically designed for use on the distal aspects of molars and premolars.
  • πŸ” The instrument can be identified by its rounded back and toe, and a face that tilts at approximately a 70-degree angle to the lower shank, which indicates the cutting edge.
  • πŸ“ To use the curette correctly, it should be placed between two premolars to ensure it is parallel to the long axis of the tooth and forms a 'V' shape on the distal aspect.
  • 🀲 The correct working end of the instrument will also 'hug' the mesial aspect of the tooth, providing another visual cue for proper placement.
  • ❌ Avoid placing the instrument on the wrong side, as this will create a 'V' shape towards the mesial of the tooth and the tip may stick out, which is incorrect.
  • βœ‹ When using the curette, ensure that only the toe third of the instrument is in contact with the tooth to remove calculus effectively.
  • πŸ“ Start the procedure by inserting the instrument at the distal line angle, ensuring the toe does not stick out and the shank is parallel to the tooth's long axis.
  • πŸ”„ Use a 70 to 80-degree angulation while rolling the instrument into the proximal space to effectively remove calculus.
  • πŸš€ Begin the cleaning process at the distal line angle and work gently under the pocket, activating the instrument to reach into the proximal spaces.
  • πŸ’‘ It's crucial to maintain a subjective approach, ensuring the instrument stays in contact with the tooth throughout the procedure.
  • πŸ‘ The video provides a demonstration on how to correctly use the Gracie 13:14 curette, which can be beneficial for dental professionals or individuals interested in dental hygiene.
  • πŸ“Ί Engaging with the content by liking and sharing can help support the channel and promote further educational content.
Q & A
  • What is the Gracie 13:14 curette?

    -The Gracie 13:14 curette is a dental instrument specifically designed for use on the distal aspects of molars and premolars. It features a rounded back and toe, and its face tilts at approximately a 70-degree angle to the lower shank.

  • How can you identify the cutting edge of the Gracie 13:14 curette?

    -The cutting edge of the Gracie 13:14 curette can be identified by the face of the instrument tilting at a 70-degree angle to the lower shank.

  • What is the correct way to position the Gracie 13:14 curette between two premolars?

    -The correct way to position the curette is to place it between the two premolars so that it is parallel to the long axis of the tooth and creates a 'V' bend on the distal aspect of the premolar.

  • How can you tell if the Gracie 13:14 curette is in the correct working end?

    -The correct working end is indicated when the 'V' bend is towards the distal aspect of the tooth and the instrument hugs the mesial of the tooth.

  • What part of the Gracie 13:14 curette should be used to remove calculus?

    -The toe third of the instrument should be used to remove calculus, ensuring that it is the part in contact with the teeth at all times.

  • How should you insert the Gracie 13:14 curette to remove calculus?

    -The instrument should be inserted at the distal line angle with the toe not sticking out and the lower shank as parallel as possible to the long axis of the tooth. Then, calculus is removed by rolling into the proximal space with a 70 to 80-degree angulation.

  • Why is it important to use the toe third of the instrument when working with the Gracie 13:14 curette?

    -Using the toe third of the instrument ensures precision and control when removing calculus, preventing damage to the tooth and providing a more effective cleaning.

  • What angle is recommended for activating the Gracie 13:14 curette within the proximal space?

    -A 70 to 80-degree angle is recommended for activating the instrument within the proximal space.

  • How should you start using the Gracie 13:14 curette on a tooth?

    -Start at the distal line angle and work your way gently under the pocket, rolling and activating the instrument at the recommended angle to reach into the proximal spaces.

  • What should you do if the 'V' bend of the Gracie 13:14 curette is facing towards the mesial of the tooth?

    -If the 'V' bend is facing towards the mesial, it indicates that the instrument is on the wrong side and should be repositioned so that the 'V' bend is towards the distal aspect.

  • What is the significance of the instrument hugging the mesial of the tooth when using the Gracie 13:14 curette?

    -The instrument hugging the mesial of the tooth is an indication that it is in the correct working position, ensuring effective cleaning and preventing damage to the tooth.

  • What should you do after using the Gracie 13:14 curette?

    -After using the curette, it is recommended to stay tuned for more educational content or seek additional guidance from a dental professional to ensure proper technique and maintenance.

Outlines
00:00
🦷 Introduction to Using the Gracie 13:14 Curette

This paragraph introduces the Gracie 13:14 curette, a dental instrument specifically designed for the distal aspects of molars and premolars. The curette has a rounded back and toe, with the face tilting at a 70-degree angle to the lower shank, which helps identify the cutting edge. The correct working end is demonstrated by placing the instrument between two premolars, creating a 'V' shape on the distal aspect and hugging the mesial. The importance of using the toe third of the instrument and ensuring it is in contact with the teeth at all times is emphasized.

Mindmap
Keywords
πŸ’‘Gracie 13:14 curette
The Gracie 13:14 curette is a dental instrument specifically designed for cleaning the molars and premolars. It is characterized by its rounded back and toe, which are crucial for its function. In the video, it is emphasized that the instrument should be used only on the distal aspects of teeth, which means the sides farthest from the front of the mouth. The correct working end is identified by a 'V' shape that forms on the distal aspect of the tooth when the instrument is properly positioned.
πŸ’‘Paradigm
In the context of the video, 'paradigm' is used to describe the Gracie 13:14 curette as a standard or typical example of a dental instrument. It implies that the curette is a model or a pattern for similar instruments within the field of dentistry.
πŸ’‘Area specific
The term 'area specific' refers to the fact that the Gracie 13:14 curette is intended for use in particular areas of the mouthβ€”specifically, the molars and premolars. This highlights the specialized nature of the instrument and its targeted application in dental hygiene.
πŸ’‘Distal aspects
The 'distal aspects' of teeth are the sides that are farthest from the center of the mouth, typically the back sides of the molars and premolars. The video emphasizes that the Gracie 13:14 curette is designed to be used on these specific areas for effective cleaning.
πŸ’‘Rounded back and toe
The 'rounded back and toe' of the Gracie 13:14 curette are its physical features that allow it to conform to the shape of the tooth. The rounded design is essential for navigating the contours of the molars and premolars and for accessing hard-to-reach areas during dental cleaning.
πŸ’‘Face tilt
The 'face tilt' of the Gracie 13:14 curette is the angle at which the working end of the instrument is inclined relative to the shank. The video specifies that this angle is approximately 70 degrees, which is a critical feature for identifying the cutting edge of the instrument and ensuring effective calculus removal.
πŸ’‘Working end
The 'working end' of the Gracie 13:14 curette is the part of the instrument that comes into contact with the tooth to perform the cleaning. Identifying the correct working end is essential for using the instrument effectively. The video demonstrates how to determine the correct working end by looking for the 'V' shape that forms on the distal aspect of the tooth.
πŸ’‘Mesial
In dentistry, 'mesial' refers to the direction or position towards the front of the mouth, opposite of 'distal'. The video mentions that the correct working end of the curette should 'hug' the mesial, indicating that the instrument should conform closely to the tooth's surface on the side closest to the front of the mouth.
πŸ’‘Toe third
The 'toe third' of the Gracie 13:14 curette is the specific part of the instrument that should be used for calculus removal. The video instructs that only this part of the curette, characterized by its pointed end, should be in contact with the teeth to ensure safety and effectiveness during the cleaning process.
πŸ’‘Distal line angle
The 'distal line angle' is the point where the distal surface of a tooth meets the occlusal surface (the chewing surface). The video demonstrates the technique of starting the cleaning process at this angle with the Gracie 13:14 curette to effectively access the area for calculus removal.
πŸ’‘Calculus removal
Calculus, also known as tartar, is a hard deposit that forms on teeth over time, usually due to poor oral hygiene. 'Calculus removal' is the process of eliminating this deposit, which is the primary function of using the Gracie 13:14 curette. The video provides a detailed technique for effectively removing calculus using the curette.
πŸ’‘Angulation
In the context of dental procedures, 'angulation' refers to the angle at which a tool is positioned or manipulated. The video emphasizes the importance of a 70 to 80-degree angulation when using the Gracie 13:14 curette to ensure that the instrument is effectively cleaning the proximal spaces between teeth.
Highlights

The Gracie 13:14 curette is a paradigm tufting instrument designed for molars and premolars.

It should be used only on the distal aspects of these teeth.

The curette has a rounded back and a rounded toe.

The face of the instrument tilts at approximately a 70-degree angle to the lower shank, indicating the cutting edge.

To identify the correct working end, place the instrument between two premolars to create a V shape on the distal aspect.

The instrument should be parallel to the long axis of the tooth and hug the mesial to confirm correct positioning.

Avoid placing the instrument on the wrong side, which would create a V towards the mesial of the premolar.

Ensure the tip does not stick out or point outward when starting.

Use the toe third of the instrument to remove calculus, ensuring it is in contact with the teeth at all times.

Insert the instrument at the distal line angle without the toe sticking out and with the lower shank parallel to the tooth's long axis.

Remove calculus by rolling into the proximal space with a 70 to 80-degree angulation.

Begin calculus removal at the distal line angle and work gently under the pocket.

Activate the instrument by rolling and inserting it into the proximal spaces.

Maintain a subjective approach when using the Gracie 13:14 curette for optimal results.

The video provides a step-by-step guide on how to properly use the Gracie 13:14 curette for dental hygiene.

Ensure that the instrument is used correctly to prevent damage and achieve the best cleaning results.

The video emphasizes the importance of technique and instrument positioning for effective dental cleaning.

Viewers are encouraged to like and share the video for more informative content.

Transcripts
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