17/18 Indiana University Curette

The 17/18 Indiana University Curette is a specialized periodontal dental instrument designed for controlled scaling and removal of calculus from appropriate tooth surfaces. The 17/18 pattern is an area-specific periodontal curette configuration developed to provide effective access to posterior tooth surfaces , particularly where an extended shank can assist with instrumentation. The working end is designed to adapt to the contours of the tooth and root surface, allowing the dental professional to perform controlled scaling strokes during periodontal maintenance and non-surgical periodontal procedures. Its shank configuration provides access to posterior areas while maintaining a practical working relationship between the handle and working end. This makes the instrument useful for scaling in areas where standard-length curettes may provide less convenient access. The curette can be used for subgingival calculus removal, periodontal scaling, root surface debridement, and periodontal maintenance , depending on the clinical indication and professional technique. Proper instrument adaptation, angulation, insertion depth, and controlled lateral pressure should be maintained throughout use. The instrument should be used only by appropriately trained dental professionals. The curette is typically manufactured from dental-grade stainless steel , providing durability and corrosion resistance and allowing repeated sterilization when supplied as a reusable instrument. Before use, inspect the working end and shank for wear, deformation, corrosion, or other damage. Maintain and sharpen the instrument according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to preserve the intended working-end geometry. Key Features 17/18 Indiana University Curette Professional periodontal instrument Area-specific working-end configuration Designed for posterior tooth surfaces Extended-access shank design Suitable for calculus removal Root surface debridement Periodontal maintenance Durable stainless steel construction Reusable configuration where applicable Product Specifications Specification Details Product Name 17/18 Indiana University Curette Category Periodontal / Dental Instruments Instrument Type Periodontal Curette Pattern 17/18 Design Indiana University Common Application Posterior Teeth Primary Function Scaling & Calculus Removal Secondary Function Root Surface Debridement Working End Area-Specific Material Dental-Grade Stainless Steel* Handle Manufacturer-Specific* Overall Length Manufacturer-Specific* Reusable Yes, applicable models Sterility Non-Sterile Unless Otherwise Specified *Exact dimensions, working-end geometry, shank configuration, and handle style may vary by manufacturer. Applications Posterior periodontal scaling Subgingival calculus removal Root surface debridement Periodontal maintenance Non-surgical periodontal therapy Dental hygiene procedures Professional calculus removal Benefits 17/18 design: Provides a specialized configuration for periodontal instrumentation. Posterior access: Designed for appropriate posterior tooth surfaces. Controlled adaptation: Supports precise contact with tooth and root surfaces. Versatile periodontal use: Suitable for scaling and root surface debridement. Durable construction: Stainless steel provides strength and corrosion resistance. FAQs 1. What is a 17/18 Indiana University Curette used for? It is designed for periodontal scaling, calculus removal, and root surface debridement on appropriate tooth surfaces, particularly posterior areas. 2. What does 17/18 refer to? The 17/18 designation identifies the specific Indiana University curette pattern and working-end configuration. 3. Is it designed for posterior teeth? Yes, the 17/18 configuration is commonly associated with posterior periodontal instrumentation. 4. Can it be used for subgingival calculus? It may be used for appropriate subgingival calculus removal according to professional periodontal instrumentation technique. 5. Is the curette reusable? Reusable models should be cleaned, sterilized, inspected, and maintained according to the manufacturer’s validated reprocessing instructions.