The shank refers to the part of the instrument that attaches the working end to the handle. As seen in writing instruments, this new padding provides the operator with greater control of the instrument and causes less fatigue on the fingers and the hand muscles. Instruments are now designed to have a larger handle in circumference, as well as padding for a better grip. They may be smooth or may have a grooved pattern for a better grasp. Handles are manufactured in various shapes and sizes some handles are round, and others are hexagonal. The handle portion of the instrument is where the operator grasps or holds the instrument. 34-2 The three parts of a dental hand instrument. When studying the accessory instruments, orthodontic pliers and surgical forceps, it will be advantageous to learn both the number and the name.įIG. The dentist will often refer to pliers and forceps by their number, rather than by their name. This number is a universal representation of that instrument. The dental manufacturer assigns a number to most instruments ( Fig. Because instruments withstand constant use, they must be able to endure sterilization procedures, as described in Chapter 21. Instruments are made of stainless steel, carbon steel, plastic, or a specialized metal. The assistant will set up the instruments on the tray in a precise order of use and is expected to transfer from the tray setup when the operator signals for a new instrument. Knowledge of each instrument is the responsibility of the clinical assistant when setting up for a procedure. Identifying Hand InstrumentsĮach type of dental instrument has a specific purpose in a dental procedure. As you study the instruments in this chapter, you will learn that each instrument is designed for a specific area of a tooth, for a specific type of dental material, and for the specific needs of the dentist. This chapter describes the design and purpose of dental instruments that are most commonly used by dentists for general restorative procedures.ĭental supply companies manufacture many variations of instruments for the purpose of accommodating personal preferences. Working end Part of a dental instrument that is used on the tooth or when dental materials are mixed.Ī wide variety of dental instruments are used in dentistry today. Tactile (TAK-til) Having a sense of touch or feeling. Shank Part of an instrument where the handle attaches to the working end. Serrated (suh-RAY-ted) Having notchlike projections that extend from a flat surface. Plane Flat or level surface of the working end of an instrument. Handle Part of a dental instrument that the operator grasps. Beveled (BEV-uld) Characterized by an angle of a surface that meets another angle.īlade Flat edge of instrument, sharp enough to cut.
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