Best Probes

PROBE

A dental probe is a tool used to measure the depth of the gingival sulcus (the natural pocket between the tooth and gum) and detect periodontal (gum) disease.

📏 WHAT DO THE NUMBERS (1–15 mm) MEAN?

The numbers indicate millimeter depth markings on the probe’s tip. These markings help the dentist measure:

• Pocket depth (healthy = 1–3 mm)
• Attachment loss
• Gum inflammation
• Bone loss in periodontitis

Example: A marking at 5 mm means the probe tip can reach a pocket that’s 5 mm deep.

TYPES OF PROBES

1. WHO23 : World Health Organization standard

Used in periodontal screening (PSR – Periodontal Screening and Recording). Features:

• Ball tip: 0.5 mm (prevents tissue damage).
• Markings at 3.5, 5.5, 8.5, 11.5 mm
• Used for global surveys and quick screening.

2. UNC 15/23 : University of North Carolina

• 15 means it has markings every 1 mm up to 15 mm.
• Often paired with: 23 Explorer on the opposite end (shepherd’s hook).
• Most accurate and detailed probe used in clinical and academic settings.

3. Williams 23 

• Markings at 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 mm (missing 4 and 6).
• Designed to reduce reading errors by skipping numbers where confusion may occur.
• Often paired with 23 explorer too.

4. GF18

• Likely refers to a manufacturer model (e.g., G. Hartzell & Son or Gracey-type instruments).
• Design and marking may vary; GF18 is not a universal standard like WHO or UNC.
• May still follow 1–15 mm system.