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Periodontal Probes: A Generational Guide

The document summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of different generations of periodontal probes. First generation probes are inexpensive but lack standardized probing force. Second generation probes standardize force but require manual readings. Third generation probes automate readings but may over or underestimate depths. Fourth generation probes aim to measure probe positions but are still under development. Fifth generation ultrasound probes are noninvasive but expensive and require operator training.

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703 views1 page

Periodontal Probes: A Generational Guide

The document summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of different generations of periodontal probes. First generation probes are inexpensive but lack standardized probing force. Second generation probes standardize force but require manual readings. Third generation probes automate readings but may over or underestimate depths. Fourth generation probes aim to measure probe positions but are still under development. Fifth generation ultrasound probes are noninvasive but expensive and require operator training.

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True Friend
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Table 2: Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Generations of Periodontal Probes

FIRST GENERATION PROBES: Williams, CPITN, UNC-15, University of Michigan O, Goldman Fox, Glickman, Merritt A and B, Nabers Advantages:
Easily available and inexpensive Tactile sensitivity is preserved Even in presence of subgingival calculus probe can be inserted with little navigation by the operator Tip is rounded to avoid tissue trauma Color-coded for easier and faster identification of readings

Disadvantages:
These probes are heavy Probing force is not controlled so the tip of the probe may pass beyond the base of the pocket Errors during visualizing the readings are possible An assistant is needed to transfer the readings to the chart

SECOND GENERATION PROBES: True Pressure Sensitive, Yeaple Advantages:


Standardization of probing forces Comfortable to the patient Constant pressurer

Disadvantages:
Probe tip may pass beyond the junctional epithelium in inflamed sites Reading has to be performed manually, and an assistant is needed to record the same on the patient chart No computer storage of data

THIRD GENERATION PROBES: Toronto Automated, Florida Probe, InterProbe, Foster-Miller Advantages:
Standardization of probing forces Errors in reading the probe and transferring the data are eliminated. Printout of the data from the computer can be used for patient education

Disadvantages:
Tactile sensitivity is decreased Probe may pass beyond the junctional epithelium in inflamed sites, overestimating the pocket depth After the inflammation has resolved, probe may not penetrate beyond the long junctional epithelium, leading to underestimation of the pocket depth

FOURTH GENERATION PROBES: Advantages:


Three-dimensional probe Sequential probe positions are measured

Disadvantages:
Under development Invasive probe

FIFTH GENERATION PROBES: UltraSonographic (US) Advantages:


A noninvasive probe that provides painless probing to the patient There is no question of probe passing beyond the junctional epithelium, as ultrasound waves detect, image, and map the upper boundary of periodontal ligament Computer storage of data and printout or visuals can be used for patient education Guidance path is predetermined Provides information regarding condition of the gingival tissues

Disadvantages:
Expensive Operator needs to understand the images provided by the computer Requires a learning curve

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