Williams Periodontal Probe #6 Handle, 1-2-3-5-7-8-9-10 - Hu-Friedy - Delynov

What is the Hu-Friedy Williams #6 handle periodontal probe?

The Williams periodontal probe from the Hu-Friedy brand is a manual diagnostic instrument designed for exploring the tooth's supporting tissues. This model is distinguished by its #6 handle, offering a specific diameter for controlled manipulation during examination. As a graduated periodontal probe, it features a thin working end graduated according to the Williams scale. This structural configuration allows the practitioner to accurately measure subgingival spaces. Manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, this instrument meets the quality requirements of oral health professionals for daily clinical evaluations.

What are the clinical indications for this instrument?

This graduated periodontal probe is primarily indicated for evaluating periodontal health. It is used to measure periodontal pocket depth, identify gingival recessions, and quantify attachment loss. In implant surgery, it allows for monitoring the stability of peri-implant tissues. The use of the Williams probe is essential for establishing an accurate diagnosis of gingivitis or periodontitis, as well as for monitoring healing after scaling and root planing or surgical intervention. It also allows for the detection of subgingival calculus or root surface irregularities.

What are the technical characteristics of the Williams graduations?

The Williams graduated periodontal probe features a specific graduation that omits the 4 mm and 6 mm marks to facilitate visual reading and avoid common measurement errors. The markings are precisely positioned at 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, and 10 millimeters. This Williams sequence is a recognized standard in periodontology for its clarity during insertion into the gingival sulcus. The Hu-Friedy #6 handle completes these technical specifications by offering ergonomics adapted to repetitive movements, ensuring fine tactile transmission indispensable for perceiving the base of the periodontal pocket or the cemento-enamel junction.

What are the contraindications for the use of the Williams probe?

According to data from the manufacturer Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, there are no specific medical contraindications listed for the use of this Class I instrument, other than those related to standard clinical practice. However, use should be avoided on extremely inflammatory or friable tissues if excessive pressure is applied, to avoid causing unnecessary trauma or false probing paths. It is imperative that the instrument be used exclusively by qualified healthcare professionals with in-depth knowledge of periodontal anatomy to ensure patient safety and the accuracy of the measurements collected.

What are the maintenance precautions for this non-resorbable probe?

As a non-resorbable metallic instrument, the Hu-Friedy graduated periodontal probe requires a rigorous sterilization protocol between each patient. Although specific cleaning details are not provided in the raw MDR text, it is customary to follow decontamination, ultrasonic cleaning, and autoclave procedures in accordance with current hygiene standards in the practice. The integrity of the Williams graduations (1-2-3-5-7-8-9-10) should be checked regularly to ensure they remain perfectly legible. Careful handling is required to avoid bending the thin tip, which would distort clinical measurements and compromise the accuracy of the periodontal diagnosis.

Who is the manufacturer and what standards are respected?

The official manufacturer of this instrument is Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, located at 3232 N. Rockwell St. Chicago, Il 60618 USA. This medical device is classified as Class I according to current regulations. As a Hu-Friedy product, it benefits from the expertise of a recognized manufacturer in the field of dental instrumentation. Professionals must imperatively read the instructions carefully before use to comply with usage recommendations. The Class I status confirms that the instrument meets the safety and performance requirements defined for medical devices in this category, thus guaranteeing reliable use in a clinical environment for periodontal probing.

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