How to Identify Dental Equipment

For dentists and dental assistants, knowledge of the various forms and types of dental equipment is paramount to contributing to a successful dental practice. From mouth mirrors to forceps, dentistry equipment covers a wide range of specialized tools used specifically for tooth care. Knowledge and the ability to identify dentistry equipment is an essential prerequisite to becoming a professional in the dentistry field. As opposed to dental instruments, dental equipment also includes items such as dental chairs and dental units.

Things You'll Need

• Dental equipment guidebook

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Instructions

• 1

  Identify a dental chair by observing the following features: body, armrest, headrest, control panel and swivel lever. The body will have a backrest, seat and leg support. The armrest may be movable, while the headrest is always movable. The control panel --- typically found on the side or the back of the chair --- connects to foot pedals attached to the base of the chair or resting on the floor. The swivel lever beneath the chair allows the dental chair to rotate.

• 2

  Find the dental unit by noting the following qualities: master switch, dental hand-piece with burs or drills, foot control, air/water syringe and an oral evacuation piece that aspirates saliva and drainage. The master switch powers and regulates the water and air flow as well as the dental hand-piece.

• 3

  Identify dentistry instruments by using your guidebook and learning various general instruments. A mouth mirror, used during most dental examinations, is a tiny circular mirror connected to a thin rod. A peridontal probe is a long, thin rod that ends with a blunted probe. It is most often used during regular dental screenings.

• 4

  Recognize the dental explorer by noting its pointed hook ending. This device is used to identify tooth decay.

  Find the forceps by noting their metal handle and beaks. Forceps are used to grasp and hold teeth.

• 5

  Visit your local dental office to identify dental equipment and learn more about specialized dentistry instruments.