The Effectiveness of 3 Types of Site-Specific Curettes Using Teaching Model

We assessed the effectiveness of site-specific curettes on subgingival scaling and root planing using a teaching model. The teaching model in which the roots of the teeth were uniformly coated with a layer of manicure paint was attached to a mannequin and instrumented. Three types of Gracy curettes were used Original®, After Five®, and Mini Five® Hu-Friedy Company. Instrumented areas were individually analyzed to assess the range reached by curettes and the percentage of manicure removed, using computerized imaging. The 12 operators were divided into amateurs (≤ 2 years in periodontal practice) and professionals (≥ 6 years in periodontal practice). Based on the type of curette, the Mini Five® showed the greatest effect, followed by After Five® and the Original® in the amateur group in the range reached and the percentage of manicure removed in lower anterior teeth. The percentage of manicure removed on mesial and distal aspects of the upper first premolar was smaller than that of the upper second premolar. The range reached by the Mini Five® on the distal aspect of the lower second molar was significantly deeper than for After Five® and Original® in the professional group, indicaling, the Mini Five® was highly effective. Based on years of practice, the range reached by curettes and the percentage of manicure removed in lower anterior teeth by the Original® in the professional group was significantly superior than that in the amateur group. The percentage of manicure removed in lower molars using the After Five® and Mini Five® by the professional group was occasionally greater than that of the amateur group. In conclusion, the effectiveness of the After Five® and Mini Five® was superior if used on specific teeth. The number years of dental practice spreared to influence the effectiveness of instrumentation in all areas. J. Jpn. Soc. Periodontol., 43: 361-373, 2001.