Barnhart Curettes

Description

Barnhart Curettes

The Barnhart is a classic periodontal curette pattern that many hygienists learn early and keep using. Each barnhart curette on this page carries a paired figure number, which on periodontal instruments usually indicates two mirror-image working ends. Two figures are available, Fig. ½ and Fig. 5/6. Both are listed on the curettes and scalers page of our supplier catalogue.

Fig. ½ or Fig. 5/6

The catalogue identifies these two only by figure number. It does not print blade lengths or shank angles beside them. Therefore, compare the two option photos to see the difference in shank bend and blade outline. Many clinicians keep one figure for anterior teeth and another with a longer reach for posterior root surfaces, but your own technique should decide.

Scaling and Root Planing With a Barnhart

A curette has a rounded toe and back, so it can slide beneath the gingival margin with less tissue trauma than a sickle. Once the blade reaches the base of the pocket, the clinician engages the deposit and pulls with a short, controlled stroke. Then overlapping strokes smooth the root surface. Because both ends are on one handle, you can switch sides of the tooth without changing instruments.

Keeping Barnhart Edges Sharp

When a Barnhart edge rounds over, it tends to smooth tartar flat rather than lift it off. So hone the face with a stone at the original angle on a regular schedule. Also, drag the Barnhart lightly across an acrylic test rod to confirm it bites.

Our United States inspectors review every Barnhart for edge quality and shank alignment before dispatch. Because these curettes arrive non-sterile, clean and autoclave them before the first patient. In addition, Barnhart customers receive three years against manufacturing defects curette by curette.

The blade steel follows ASTM F899 for surgical stainless. Browse more periodontal and diagnostic instruments, add area-specific Gracey Curettes, or see our FAQs.

Curettes are intended for licensed hygienists and dentists. Read our curette reprocessing guide and shipping and delivery terms.