Kirkland Knife

Description

Kirkland Knife

The Kirkland knife is a classic periodontal pattern for cutting soft tissue. Its broad blade suits long, sweeping incisions along the gingiva, which is why it remains a staple of gingivectomy trays. We offer one Kirkland pattern on this page, so there are no versions to compare.

Cutting a Gingivectomy Line

A gingivectomy starts with marked pocket depths. Then the knife follows those marks in a continuous bevelled cut along the facial or lingual surface. Because the blade is broad, it keeps the incision smooth rather than ragged. A finer interdental knife can then finish the papillae.

Uses Around Implants

Soft tissue around an implant sometimes needs reshaping. For example, a bulky collar may hide the cover screw at second-stage surgery. In that case, the knife can thin and contour the tissue before a healing abutment goes in. Still, keep the cut conservative, since keratinised tissue is limited.

Partner Knives in the Tray

Most periodontists pair the Kirkland with an Orban pattern. While the Kirkland handles the broad facial and lingual sweep, the narrow Orban works between teeth. Together they cover the whole gingivectomy outline, and one tray holds both.

Edge Care and Our Commitment

A periodontal knife is only useful while sharp. So, hone the edge lightly with a fine stone after every few cases, and store it where the blade cannot knock against other steel. Before dispatch, each knife gets an edge and finish inspection from our staff in Atlanta, in the United States. Kirkland knives travel unsterilized, so scrub the blade with care and autoclave it before any incision. Finally, the Kirkland pattern is guaranteed three years against manufacturing defects, though a dulled edge from use is not a defect.

Blade steel conforms to ASTM F899. Browse the periodontal instruments category, and add the Orban knife for interdental cuts. Ordering and returns are covered in our FAQs.

For use by trained periodontal and dental professionals. Our pages on knife care and sterilization and order shipping are worth reading first.