When it comes to your bi-annual dental cleaning, you probably know what to expect. If you were to put your checkup into words, it would probably sound something like this:

 

 

Pointy metal thingamabob.

Rinse.

Another pointy metal whatzit.

Floss.

Rinse again.

Spinning tooth-cleaning gizmo.

And those metal thingamabobs? Hygienists have (nearly) 20. But what are the actual names of the hygienists’ treasures untold? More importantly, how do these gadgets give your teeth that deep clean?

We’re here to clear up the confusion. Here are the basics:

• Mirrors

Circular, handheld mirrors help hygienists see part of your mouth’s world. They can peer into nooks and crannies, as well as check for tartar and decay. These mini mirrors are used while the other metal tools do the dirty work. 

• Probes

Probes are made of metal and closely resemble a hook shape. Its sharp point allows hygienists to check gum health and measure pocket depths around a tooth. There are various types of probes, each one geared toward a specific oral health issue.

• Scalers

Scalers are the pointed metal instruments used to scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth.

• Curettes

Curettes are another metal tool featuring a rounded end. Like scalers, they also scrape away tartar, but from underneath your gums. 

• Polishers 

After the scaler and curette do their jobs, your hygienist will pick up the polisher. Much like a shoeshine, this tool buffs away uneven areas on teeth to leave a bright, smooth surface. Besides making your teeth shinier, polishers discourage plaque and tartar growth.

You might not be part of their world, but now you know (some of) what the hygienists know. If you want to learn more about your dental cleaning, ask ‘em your questions — you’ll get some answers.