Design and Care of Dental Hygiene Instruments Flashcards
1
Q
Types of stainless steel available for hand instruments
Stainless steel does not corrode or rust
A
- Austenitic.
- Martensitic.
- Ferritic.
2
Q
Austenitic
A
- Hypodermic needles.
- Probe.
3
Q
Martensitic
A
- Cutting instruments.
- Scalers.
4
Q
Ferritic
A
- For bulk.
- Handles.
5
Q
Most and instruments are made from steels containing chrome. Disadvantages?
A
- Do not maintain a good cutting edge.
- Need constant sharpening.
6
Q
What can be used for instruments instead of steels?
A
Tungsten carbide tips.
- Hard compound.
- Stays sharp for a long time.
- Should not be used on enamel.
7
Q
Why do we need instruments for implant care?
A
To not scratch or damage the titanium abutments.
8
Q
Anatomy of dental instruments
A
- Handle - To grasp the instrument.
- Shank - Connects handle to working end. Allows adaptation of the working end to the tooth surface.
- Working end
9
Q
Factors to consider when selecting instrument handles
A
- Weight
- Diameter
- Serration
10
Q
Instrument weight
A
- Hollow handles increase tactile sensation and reduce fatigue.
- Silicone handles are lightweight and improve grasp.
11
Q
Instrument diameter
A
- Large handles maximise control and encourage a lighter grasp.
- Smaller handles increases muscle fatigue.
12
Q
Instrument serration
A
- Knurled and silicone handles provide a gripping surface.
- Enhances control.
13
Q
Instrument shank
A
- Functional shank - From working end to handle
- Terminal shank - Between working end and first bend. Used to adapt the instrument to the tooth.
14
Q
Working end
A
- Back.
- Lateral surface.
- Face.
- Heel.
- Tip (pointy) or toe (rounded).
- 1st third is the tip/toe.
- Middle third.
- 3rd third is the heel.
15
Q
Instrument design features
A
- Single ended.
- Double ended - Fewer instruments needed. Saves times and less sterilisation. Need to be careful to not injure operator or patient when turning the instrument.
- Balanced.
