Universal Curets Flashcards
universal curet
a periodontal instrument used to remove small and medium sized calculus deposits from the crowns and roots of the teeth
unique design characteristics of universal curet
a rounded back
a rounded toe
two cutting edges per working end
semicircular in cross section
design of the working end of universal curets
the face of the working end is perpendicular to the lower shank
working stroke is 70-80 degree face to tooth surface angulation
lower shank as visual cue
lower shank is parallel to the distal surface
functional shank goes up and over the tooth
posterior sequencing
area 1: insert at distofacial line angle
area 2: distofacial line angle forward for the facial and mesial surfaces
why is adapting the working end to the facial and lingual roots surfaces of the mandibular posterior teeth challenging and how do you fix it
- your hands may block your vision of the lingual surfaces
- the rounded posterior crowns make it difficult to place the working end on the root surfaces
have the correct handle position and keep it as upright as possible
universals on anterior teeth
the face of the universal curet is the visual clue used to select the correct working end
the complex shank design sometimes facilitates access to the lingual root surfaces of mandibular anterior teeth
correct vs incorrect working end for anterior teeth
correct: face tilts toward tooth surface and is partially hidden from view
incorrect: entire face is clearly visible
sequencing for anterior teeth
divide teeth in half
establish 0 degree angulation with face hugging the tooth surface
area 1: from midline of tooth to mesial surface
area 2: from midline of tooth to distal surface
beginning clinicians often miss calculus deposits in two areas:
distofacial and distolingual line angles of posterior teeth
midlines of facial and lingual surfaces of anterior teeth
which strokes are effective in removing calculus deposits at line angles and midlines
horizontal
