7 ways to detect calculus
TLDRThe transcript outlines seven methods for detecting and managing calculus in dental hygiene. The first method is the traditional periodontal probe, which despite being old school, is highly recommended for its effectiveness in detecting calculus. The second method involves using a power scaling tip, which can help identify calculus while working, though it's not as precise as a periodontal probe. Hand scaling with American Eagle Blackjack is the third method, which is useful but not as effective as a probe. Flossing, the fourth method, is a common practice that aids in finding calculus, especially in areas that are difficult to reach. The fifth method is using an air-water syringe, which can help dislodge and reveal calculus. The sixth method is utilizing 4.5 loops with a light, which can significantly improve the visibility of calculus. Lastly, the peroscope, a mini camera for direct visualization, is mentioned as a less common but highly effective tool for calculus removal. The speaker encourages hygienists to use these tools to ensure thorough calculus removal, as it's easy to miss some during cleaning.
Takeaways
- 🦷 The traditional periodontal probe is an effective tool for detecting calculus, even after dental hygiene school.
- 🔍 Power scaling tips, like the Burnet tip, can be used to detect calculus, though not as accurately as a periodontal probe.
- 🛠 Hand scaling with tools like the American Eagle Blackjack can help in feeling for calculus, though it may not be as effective as other methods.
- 🧵 Flossing is a universal practice that can reveal calculus in areas that other tools might miss.
- 🌬 Using an air water syringe can help in detecting chalky or sheet calculus, especially in lower anteriors, by drying and flapping the gums back.
- 🔦 A combination of loops and a light, such as the 4.5 loops with Lumident light, can significantly improve the detection and removal of calculus.
- 📹 The use of a perio-scope, a mini camera for subgingival areas, provides direct vision and can be highly effective, though it is an expensive and less common tool.
- 💡 It's important to use a variety of tools and techniques to ensure thorough detection and removal of calculus, as each method has its strengths in different areas.
- 🤔 Hygienists should consider investing in a perio-scope for the future as it may become a mainstream tool for calculus removal.
- 🗣 Encouraging open communication, where hygienists can ask questions and share knowledge, contributes to better dental hygiene practices.
Q & A
What is the first method mentioned for detecting calculus?
-The first method mentioned is the use of a periodontal probe, which is an old school tool that the speaker recommends for its effectiveness in detecting calculus blindly.
What is a power scaling tip and how can it be used to detect calculus?
-A power scaling tip is a device used in dental hygiene that can help detect calculus while working. It's not as effective as a periodontal probe, but it can provide tactile feedback and assist in the detection process.
How does hand scaling with American Eagle Blackjack help in detecting calculus?
-Hand scaling with American Eagle Blackjack can help detect calculus by allowing the hygienist to feel for it manually. It's not as precise as a probe, but it's a useful tool for identifying calculus.
Why is flossing important in the calculus detection process?
-Flossing is important because it's a different method that can reach areas that other tools might miss. It's a basic yet effective way to detect calculus, especially in areas that are difficult to access.
What role does the air water syringe play in calculus detection?
-The air water syringe is used to dry areas where calculus might be present, making it more visible. It can also be used to flap the gums back for a better view into the pocket, aiding in the detection of calculus.
How does using a 4.5 loop with a light help in detecting calculus?
-Using a 4.5 loop with a light can significantly improve the visibility of calculus. The combination of the loop and the light allows the hygienist to see deeper into the pocket, making it easier to spot calculus.
What is a peroscope and how does it assist in calculus detection?
-A peroscope is a mini camera that can be inserted into the subgingival area, providing direct vision of the area on a screen. It allows for the detection and removal of calculus under direct vision, which is more accurate than other methods.
Why is the peroscope not commonly used among hygienists?
-The peroscope is not commonly used because it is expensive and considered a niche tool. Only a few hygienists currently use it, but there is hope that it may become more mainstream in the future.
What is the importance of using multiple methods for calculus detection?
-Using multiple methods is important because no single tool can detect all calculus, especially when working blindly. Each method has its strengths in certain areas, and combining them increases the chances of finding all calculus.
Why did the speaker initially give up on using a periodontal probe after hygiene school?
-The speaker does not specify the exact reason for initially giving up on using a periodontal probe, but they mention coming back to it a year or two after hygiene school, indicating a renewed appreciation for its effectiveness.
How does the speaker suggest using the air from the air water syringe?
-The speaker suggests using the air from the air water syringe to dry areas where calculus might be present, to flap the gums back for better visibility, and to inspect deeper into the pocket for calculus.
What is the speaker's recommendation for hygienists regarding loops and lights?
-The speaker recommends that all hygienists should have loops and a light, as it significantly helps in detecting and visualizing calculus more effectively.
Outlines
🦷 Detecting Calculus with Traditional Tools
The paragraph discusses the importance of using traditional tools to detect calculus. It mentions the 'old school' periodontal probe as the best method for blind detection of calculus. The speaker recommends getting back to using these tools if not already doing so. Additionally, the paragraph touches on the use of power scaling tips, such as the Burnet power tip, to aid in calculus detection. It emphasizes the value of hand scaling with American Eagle Blackjack, which, while not as effective as a probe, still contributes to calculus detection. Flossing is also highlighted as a fundamental method, albeit with its limitations in certain areas.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡Calculus
💡Perio Explorer
💡Power Scaling
💡Hand Scaling
💡Flossing
💡Air Water Syringe
💡4.5 Loops
💡Lumident Light
💡Perioscope
💡Subgingival Area
💡Dental Hygienist
Highlights
Old school periodontal probes are recommended for detecting calculus, even after dental hygiene school.
Periodontal probes are considered the best method for detecting calculus blindly.
Power scaling tips, like the Burnet power tip, can be used to detect calculus during treatment.
Hand scaling with American Eagle Blackjack is a reliable method for feeling and detecting calculus.
Flossing is a traditional method that can help find calculus in different areas of the mouth.
Air from an air-water syringe can help detect chalky subgingival calculus.
Using air to flap gums back can provide a better view into pockets for calculus detection.
Combining loops and air can enhance the visibility of calculus up to several millimeters into the pocket.
Lumident light used with 4.5 loops can significantly improve calculus detection.
Perioscopes provide direct vision of subgingival areas for calculus removal.
Perioscopes are expensive and not yet common, but they offer a high level of precision.
The use of perioscopes may become mainstream in the future for ensuring complete calculus removal.
Different tools and methods contribute to a comprehensive approach for detecting and removing calculus.
No single tool can detect all calculus, so a combination of techniques is essential.
Hygienists should consider incorporating multiple tools to ensure thorough calculus detection.
The speaker encourages questions and engagement for further discussion on calculus detection methods.
Transcripts
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