Okuzeka
Dentistry vocabulary · Instruments and the Dental Clinic

Probe

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

/proʊb/nounCore term

In dentistry, probe means: A thin hand instrument for examining teeth and gums. A periodontal probe has millimeter marks to measure pocket depth; a sharp probe (explorer) checks surfaces and filling margins.

In Turkish: sond, periodontal sond

How it is used

Also a verb: dentists probe the gums and record probing depths. In the US the sharp instrument is usually called an explorer. Bleeding on probing (BOP) is a key sign of gum inflammation.

Example sentences

  1. The probe goes in five millimeters on the distal of this molar.

  2. There was bleeding on probing at most sites.

Common collocations

  • periodontal probe
  • probing depth
  • bleeding on probing
  • probe the gums
  • periodontal pocketAn abnormally deep space between the gum and the tooth root, caused by periodontitis. The healthy gap is about 1 to 3 mm deep; pockets are deeper.
  • mouth mirrorA small round mirror on a handle used to see surfaces that are hard to view directly, reflect light into the mouth and hold the cheek or tongue out of the way.
  • gingivitisInflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque. The gums look red and swollen and bleed easily, but good cleaning can reverse it.
  • dental chartA diagram of all the teeth on which the dentist records which teeth are present, missing, decayed or filled, and what treatment is needed.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

More terms: Instruments and the Dental Clinic

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.