Universal Curettes

Question 1

describe the design of the universal curette

Answer 1

• 2 cutting edges
• rounded toe
• face that is parallel to the floor when the terminal shank is held at 12 oclock position

Question 1

when can universal curettes be used

Answer 1

• everywhere
• shank length helps identify instruments that are better for shallow vs deeper periodontal pockets

Question 2

what is the difference between the columbia 13/14 and the 4R/4L

Answer 2

4R/4L is longer and better for deep pockets

Question 3

how do you determine the correct working end of the instrument

Answer 3

toe of the instrument curves toward the mesial aspect of the tooth you are working on
- terminal shank is parallel to the long axis of the tooth

Question 4

what is the ideal instrument stroke for curettes

Answer 4

across a tooth surface is oblique and overlapping

Question 5

how should you use universal curettes in anterior teeth

Answer 5

• begin at midline
• scale into interproximal space
• align handle so it is parallel to the long axis of the tooth
• flip the instrument when scaling the other half of the tooth