Merritt Periodontal Probes

Description

Merritt Periodontal Probes

A merritt periodontal probe measures the depth of the gingival sulcus or pocket around each tooth. The clinician slides the slim tip down beside the root until it meets resistance, then reads the depth against the markings. Those readings form the periodontal chart that guides diagnosis and treatment planning.

Pattern A and Pattern B

Our supplier lists two Merritt pocket probes, labelled A and B, on its probe catalogue page. The catalogue does not describe how they differ in words. Therefore, compare the photos to see the tip shape and shank angle of each. If your clinic already uses one, ordering the same letter keeps charting consistent across operators.

Reading a Pocket Accurately

Use light pressure, because heavy force pushes the tip past the base of the pocket. Next, walk the probe around the tooth in small steps rather than lifting it out each time. Then record the deepest reading at each site on the chart.

Six Sites per Tooth

Most charting systems record six sites per tooth: three on the facial side and three on the lingual side. So a full mouth chart takes many readings. In that setting, a probe whose markings you can read quickly saves real time.

Protecting the Markings

Markings fade if instruments rub against each other. So keep the probe in its own cassette slot. Also, check the tip for bends after each cycle, since a bent probe gives false readings.

The Merritt probes are stainless steel, and we check each tip for straightness in the United States before it leaves Atlanta. A Merritt probe reaches you unsterilized; process it fully before the first periodontal exam. Pattern A and Pattern B are each protected three years against manufacturing defects by Intrace USA.

Read ASTM F899 for steel quality. More probes are in the diagnostic and periodontal category, and the Goldman-Fox periodontal probes offer another charting option. Our FAQs cover ordering.

Probes are sold for trained dental hygienists and dentists. See our probe care page and shipping details.