A periodontal probe

Abstract

The utility model discloses a periodontal probe in dental equipment technical field, including probe handle and probe head. Among them, probe head is made of high molecule material, has the characteristics of lightweight, and makes probe head have certain elasticity, prevents rigid incision to periodontal tissue, reduces the load of hand of periodontal probe to long -time operation simultaneously, is helpful to keep the sensitivity of long -time operation probe head of user. Probe head includes needle tip and probe main part, and probe main part is connected in probe handle, and needle tip is connected in the one end of probe main part away from probe handle. Needle tip is equipped with a plurality of scale sections, and the color of every scale section is different from each other. User can judge the depth of probe insertion periodontal tissue fast and accurately through observing scale section, improves the efficiency of user's judgment periodontal tissue health condition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of dental equipment technology, and specifically relates to a periodontal probe. Background Technology

[0002] Periodontal probes are commonly used examination instruments in dentistry, playing a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of periodontal disease. Dentists typically insert the periodontal probe gently into the periodontal pocket or gingival sulcus below the gum line until it reaches the root surface. They then observe the insertion depth using the graduations or markings on the probe to assess the degree of periodontitis. However, the graduations on conventional periodontal probes are not easily observed, hindering accurate measurement of insertion depth and making it difficult for dentists to provide precise information about the health of periodontal tissues. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to disclose a periodontal probe that facilitates doctors in observing the depth to which the probe penetrates the periodontal tissue, providing accurate information for doctors to assess the health status of the periodontal tissue.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model discloses a periodontal probe, comprising: Probe handle, the probe handle being used for gripping; and The probe tip is made of a polymer material and includes a tip and a body. The body is connected to the handle, and the tip is connected to the end of the body away from the handle. The tip has multiple scale segments, and each scale segment has a different color.

[0005] As an optional implementation, the probe head and the probe handle are a non-detachable, integrated structure.

[0006] As an optional implementation, the probe head and the probe handle are detachable separate structures.

[0007] As an optional implementation, the probe body has a screw at one end away from the needle tip, and the probe shank has a threaded hole that is threaded to the screw; or the probe body has the threaded hole at one end away from the needle tip, and the probe shank has the screw.

[0008] As an optional implementation, the probe handle includes a handle sleeve and a handle rod, the handle sleeve being fitted around the outer periphery of the handle rod, and the handle rod being detachably connected to the probe head.

[0009] As an alternative implementation, the handle sleeve is a flexible, soft material; and / or, the handle bar is a rigid material without flexibility.

[0010] As an optional implementation, the handle sleeve has an inner cavity for accommodating the handle rod, and the shape of the inner cavity matches the shape of the handle rod.

[0011] As an optional implementation, the handle includes a first end, a middle part, and a second end connected sequentially along a preset direction, wherein the maximum dimension of the middle part perpendicular to the preset direction is smaller than the maximum dimension of the second end perpendicular to the preset direction; and / or, the maximum dimension of the middle part perpendicular to the preset direction is smaller than the maximum dimension of the first end perpendicular to the preset direction.

[0012] As an alternative implementation, the probe handle has a cylindrical structure, and the diameter of the probe handle gradually decreases along the direction away from the probe head.

[0013] As an optional implementation, the outer peripheral wall of the probe handle is provided with an anti-slip structure at least at one end near the probe head.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: (1) The probe tip is made of polymer material and has the characteristics of being lightweight. This gives the probe tip a certain degree of elasticity, preventing rigid cuts to periodontal tissues. At the same time, it reduces the load on the hand when using the periodontal probe for a long time, which helps maintain the sensitivity of the user when using the probe tip for a long time.

[0015] (2) The needle tip has multiple scale segments, and each scale segment is a different color. Users can quickly and accurately determine the depth of the probe into the periodontal tissue by observing the scale segments, thereby improving the efficiency of users in judging the health status of the periodontal tissue. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the present invention; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle; Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the handle sleeve and handle rod of this utility model; Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of point B in the middle; Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of point C in the middle; Figure 7 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of point D in the middle; Explanation of key figure labels: 1. Probe head; 11. Needle tip; 111. Scale section; 12. Probe body; 121. Screw; 2. Probe handle; 21. Handle sleeve; 211. Anti-slip structure; 212. Inner cavity; 213. Through port; 22. Handle rod; 221. First end; 222. Middle part; 223. Second end; 224. Threaded hole; 225. Elastomer; 226. Positioning groove; D1, Preset direction. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0019] In this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this invention and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to include a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0020] Furthermore, in addition to indicating direction or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0021] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0022] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, components, or parts (which may be the same or different in specific type and construction), and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, components, or parts. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0023] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0024] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 3 As shown, this application provides a periodontal probe, including a probe handle 2 for manual holding and a probe head 1 for detecting periodontal tissues. The probe head 1 includes a tip 11 and a probe body 12, with the probe body 12 connected to the probe handle 2 and the tip 11 connected to the end of the probe body 12 away from the probe handle 2. The user typically holds the probe handle 2, allowing the probe head 1 at the other end of the probe handle 2 to penetrate the patient's periodontal tissues.

[0025] The probe tip 1 is made of a lightweight polymer material, reducing hand strain during prolonged periodontal probe use and helping to maintain sensitivity during extended operation. Compared to conventional metal probe tips 1, the polymer material probe tip 1 is simpler to manufacture. Furthermore, polymer materials generally possess good chemical stability and are less likely to react with various chemicals in the oral cavity. This ensures the stability and reliability of the probe tip 1 in the oral environment, preventing reactions with saliva, acids, or alkalis from affecting its basic performance and lifespan.

[0026] The probe tip 11 has multiple scale segments 111, each a different color. Users can quickly and accurately determine the depth of the probe insertion into the periodontal tissue by observing the scale segments 111. The different colors of the scale segments 111 make reading measurement data more intuitive and convenient. In low light or long operation times, users can quickly distinguish different scales by color, reducing reading errors and improving work efficiency. The number of scale segments 111 is no less than two, and can be 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.; the length of each scale segment 111 is between 2mm and 5mm, with specific length values ​​including 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, etc. The colors of the different scale segments 111 include, but are not limited to, red, black, yellow, green, and blue.

[0027] In some embodiments, the needle tip 11 is provided with two scale segments 111. The lengths of each scale segment 111 in the direction from the needle tip 11 to the probe body 12 are 2mm and 3mm respectively, and the total length of the two scale segments 111 is 5mm. The colors of the two scale segments 111 are green and black respectively.

[0028] In some embodiments, the needle tip 11 is provided with three scale segments 111. The length of each scale segment 111 is 3mm in the direction from the needle tip 11 to the probe body 12, and the total length of the three scale segments 111 is 9mm. The colors of the three scale segments 111 are green, yellow and red in sequence.

[0029] In some embodiments, the needle tip 11 is provided with three scale segments 111. The lengths of each scale segment 111 in the direction from the needle tip 11 to the probe body 12 are 3.5mm, 4mm and 5mm respectively, and the total length of the three scale segments 111 is 12.5mm. The colors of the three scale segments 111 are orange, red and black respectively.

[0030] In some embodiments, the needle tip 11 is provided with 5 scale segments 111. The lengths of each scale segment 111 in the direction from the needle tip 11 to the probe body 12 are 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm and 4mm respectively, and the total length of the 5 scale segments 111 is 15mm. The colors of the 5 scale segments 111 are green, yellow, orange, red and black respectively.

[0031] In some embodiments, the needle tip 11 is provided with 12 scale segments 111. The length of each scale segment 111 is 1 mm in the direction from the needle tip 11 to the probe body 12, and the total length of the 12 scale segments 111 is 12 mm. The first to third scale segments are green, the third to sixth scale segments are yellow, the sixth to ninth scale segments are red, and the ninth to twelfth scale segments are black.

[0032] In some embodiments, the probe head 1 and the probe shank 2 are a non-detachable, one-piece structure. Methods for producing a one-piece periodontal probe include, but are not limited to, injection molding, 3D printing, and lathe machining.

[0033] The one-piece structure of the periodontal probe makes the probe tip 1 and probe shank 2 an inseparable whole, resulting in greater overall structural strength. During periodontal probing, especially when applying pressure, the one-piece structure allows for better control of the probe's movement to the precise position, reducing the risk of uncontrollable deformation due to loose connections and ensuring accurate measurement results. This one-piece polymer periodontal probe can also be used for single-use purposes, making it convenient for dentists in situations lacking dedicated periodontal probe sterilization facilities, such as free clinics and teaching activities.

[0034] The integrated probe tip 1 and probe handle 2 have no connecting gaps, making it less prone to dirt and grime buildup and reducing the possibility of bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants accumulating at the connection point. In an oral healthcare environment, this helps reduce the risk of cross-infection and better protects patient health and safety.

[0035] Please see Figure 2 As shown, the probe head 1 and the probe handle 2 are detachable separate structures. Methods for detachably connecting the probe head 1 and the probe handle 2 include, but are not limited to, snap-fit, threaded connection, magnetic attraction, or fastener connection.

[0036] When a periodontal probe malfunctions, the split design makes it easier to pinpoint the problem. If probe tip 1 is worn due to prolonged use, only probe tip 1 needs to be repaired or replaced; if probe shank 2 is deformed and fails, probe shank 2 can be replaced separately. This improves repair efficiency and reduces repair time and costs.

[0037] The probe tip 1 comes into direct contact with the patient's oral cavity and is easily contaminated with various bacteria, viruses, saliva, and dental plaque. The separate design allows for a higher standard of cleaning and disinfection of the probe tip 1 independently, enabling a deeper and more thorough removal of dirt and pathogens, reducing the risk of cross-infection. The probe handle 2, on the other hand, has relatively less contact with contaminants and can be treated with a lower cleaning frequency and intensity. This allows for differentiated disinfection of different components of the periodontal probe, improving the efficiency and quality of disinfection.

[0038] Different periodontal examination needs may require different types of probes. For example, if there are changes in the periodontal tissues during the patient's initial visit or follow-up visit, different types of probes may be needed for diagnosis. Alternatively, probes with different shapes and scales may be required for different periodontal conditions (such as deeper or shallower periodontal pockets).

[0039] The detachable periodontal probe allows the probe handle 2 to be adapted to various probe heads 1 of different specifications and functions. Doctors can quickly change to the appropriate probe head 1 according to the actual examination situation, which improves the versatility and applicability of the periodontal probe.

[0040] Please see Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the probe body 12 is provided with a screw 121 at the end away from the needle tip 11, and the probe handle 2 is provided with a threaded hole 224 that is threaded to the screw 121. The portion of the probe body 12 at least near the screw 121 is a polygonal structure, which makes it easy to manually or with tools clamp and twist the probe body 12 so that the probe body 12 is screwed into the threaded hole 224, so that the probe body 12 and the probe handle 2 form a stable and relatively fixed state.

[0041] Alternatively, the probe body 12 may have a threaded hole 224 at the end away from the needle tip 11, and a screw 121 may be provided on the probe handle 2. Compared to rotating the probe body 12, which has a smaller operating volume, it is more convenient to manually rotate the probe handle 2, which has a larger operating volume.

[0042] Please see Figure 5 As shown, an elastic body 225 is provided at the bottom of the threaded hole 224. The elastic body 225 referred to here includes, but is not limited to, a compression spring, an elastic washer, or a polymer elastic block. During the threaded engagement of the probe head 1 and the probe handle 2, the elastic body 225 at the bottom of the threaded hole 224 is compressed. After the stud and the threaded hole 224 are fully engaged, the elastic deformation force of the elastic body 225 on the stud can pre-tighten and prevent loosening of the stud, so as to ensure the stability of the threaded connection between the probe head 1 and the probe handle 2.

[0043] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the probe handle 2 includes a handle sleeve 21 and a handle rod 22. The handle sleeve 21 is fitted around the outer periphery of the handle rod 22, and the handle rod 22 is detachably connected to the probe head 1.

[0044] The handle 21 is typically made of soft, skin-friendly materials such as rubber or silicone. When the dentist holds the probe for periodontal examination, the handle 21 increases the friction between the palm and the probe handle 2, preventing the probe from slipping and providing a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue caused by prolonged use. The shaft 22, as the internal support structure of the probe handle 2, is generally made of high-strength materials such as metal or high-strength plastic. It provides the necessary rigidity and stability for the entire probe, ensuring that the probe will not easily bend or deform during the probe insertion process, thus guaranteeing measurement accuracy.

[0045] The handle 21 comes into direct contact with the dentist's hand, making it prone to accumulating dirt and sweat, and it may also experience wear and tear due to prolonged use. The separate design of the handle 21 from the probe handle 22 allows the handle 21 to be easily removed for individual cleaning, disinfection, or replacement. When the handle 21 becomes dirty or damaged, it is not necessary to replace the entire probe handle 2; only the handle 21 needs to be replaced, reducing the cost of using periodontal probes.

[0046] In some embodiments, the handle 21 is a flexible, soft component, which may be made of silicone, PU, ​​or rubber. The surface of the flexible, soft handle 21 is generally soft, providing better support and a snug fit for the fingers, allowing the user to grip the probe handle 2 more easily. Whether performing delicate probing operations or operations requiring greater force, it allows the user to better control the direction and force of the probe, improving operational accuracy.

[0047] And / or, the handle 22 is a rigid, inelastic component. A rigid, inelastic component refers to a rigid object that does not exhibit macroscopic elastic deformation or visible elastic deformation under stress. Such a handle 22 ensures that the probe does not bend or deform under stress, stably transmitting the dentist's force to the probe tip 1, allowing the probe tip 1 to enter the periodontal tissue in the direction and angle expected by the dentist, thereby obtaining accurate examination results.

[0048] Please see Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the handle sleeve 21 has an inner cavity 212 for accommodating the handle 22, and the shape of the inner cavity 212 matches the shape of the handle 22.

[0049] The matching shape allows the shank 22 to fit snugly against the inner cavity 212, increasing the contact area between them. This tight fit provides better connection stability, preventing the shank 22 from wobbling or loosening within the inner cavity 212. During procedures such as periodontal probing, a stable connection ensures the proper use of the probe and prevents measurement accuracy from being affected by shank 22 wobbling.

[0050] The close fit between the sleeve 21 and the handle 22 creates significant static friction, reducing relative rotation between them. When the doctor manipulates the probe, the applied force and torque are transmitted and dispersed more effectively, ensuring the overall stability and reliability of the probe and preventing loss of direction or measurement errors in the probe head 1 due to unstable connection. It also increases the stability of the relative position of the sleeve 21 and the handle 22 during assembly or disassembly of the probe head 1 and handle 22.

[0051] In some embodiments, the handle 22 includes a first end 221, a middle portion 222, and a second end 223 connected sequentially along a preset direction D1. The maximum dimension of the middle portion 222 perpendicular to the preset direction D1 is smaller than the maximum dimension of the second end 223 perpendicular to the preset direction D1. And / or, the maximum dimension of the middle portion 222 perpendicular to the preset direction D1 is smaller than the maximum dimension of the first end 221 perpendicular to the preset direction D1.

[0052] The thicker second end 223 and the first end 221 fit more tightly with the inner cavity 212 of the handle sleeve 21. When the handle 22 is inserted into the handle sleeve 21, the larger diameter increases the contact area between the handle 22 and the inner wall of the handle sleeve 21, thus increasing the friction. This greater friction effectively prevents the handle 22 from sliding along the preset direction D1 within the handle sleeve 21, which is beneficial for fixing the axial position of the handle 22 as a whole within the handle sleeve 21.

[0053] In addition to axial sliding, the probe may also be subjected to torsional forces during operation. The thicker second end 223 and first end 221 can better resist this torsional force, preventing the shank 22 from twisting within the shank sleeve 21. Because the larger diameter requires more force to twist the shank 22, the relative position between the shank 22 and the shank sleeve 21 remains stable, thus ensuring that the direction of the probe tip 1 does not change due to twisting, improving the accuracy of using the periodontal probe.

[0054] Please see Figures 6 to 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the end of the handle 22 away from the probe head 1 is provided with a positioning groove 226, and the inner cavity 212 is provided with a through-hole 213 corresponding to the position of the positioning groove 226. The positioning groove 226 communicates with the space outside the inner cavity 212 through the through-hole 213. Due to long-term use, the handle sleeve 21 may become loose relative to the handle 22 due to aging and deformation. The relative sliding between the handle 22 and the handle sleeve 21 may make it difficult to disassemble or assemble the handle 22 and the probe head 1. In this case, the handle 22 can be manually inserted or a tool such as a hex wrench can be used to insert into the positioning groove 226 through the through-hole 213 to fix the circumferential position of the handle 22, which facilitates the installation or disassembly of the probe head 1 and the handle 22.

[0055] In some embodiments, the probe handle 2 has a cylindrical structure, and the diameter of the probe handle 2 gradually decreases along the direction away from the probe head 1.

[0056] This design is ergonomic, making the outer contour of the probe handle 2 more consistent with the natural shape and force characteristics of the hand. When the doctor holds the probe, the end closer to the probe head 1 has a relatively larger diameter, which increases the stability of the grip. The diameter gradually decreases at the end farther away from the probe head 1, which reduces the weight of the probe handle 2, allowing the hand muscles to remain more relaxed during long-term operation and reducing hand fatigue.

[0057] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral wall of the probe handle 2 is provided with an anti-slip structure 211 at least at one end near the probe head 1.

[0058] The anti-slip structure 211 referred to here can be concentrated at one end of the probe handle 2 near the probe head 1, which is the main force application area when the doctor uses the periodontal probe to detect periodontal tissues, and the requirement for friction is relatively high; or it can be evenly distributed on the outer surface of the probe handle 2, so that the periodontal probe is not easy to slip off the hand when the doctor moves it; the anti-slip structure can also be a groove the size of a fingernail cut on the outer wall of the probe handle 2, which can increase the contact friction between the hand and the probe handle 2, and also increase the force-bearing area between the fingers and the probe handle 2, thus improving the comfort of holding the probe handle 2.

[0059] During procedures such as periodontal probing, the dentist's hands may become slippery due to sweating or contact with disinfectants, or the probe handle 2 may easily slip relative to the hand during procedures requiring greater force and complex movements. The anti-slip structure 211 increases the friction between the palm and the probe handle 2, effectively preventing the probe from slipping out of the hand and avoiding injury to the patient's oral tissues or damage to instruments, thus ensuring the safety of the procedure.

[0060] The technical means disclosed in this utility model are not limited to those disclosed in the above embodiments, but also include technical solutions composed of any combination of the above technical features. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principle of this utility model, and these improvements and modifications are also considered within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A periodontal probe, characterized in that, include: A probe handle for gripping; as well as The probe tip is made of a polymer material and includes a tip and a body. The body is connected to the handle, and the tip is connected to the end of the body away from the handle. The tip has multiple scale segments, and each scale segment has a different color.

2. The periodontal probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe head and the probe handle are a non-detachable, integrated structure.

3. The periodontal probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe head and the probe handle are detachable separate structures.

4. The periodontal probe according to claim 3, characterized in that, The probe body has a screw at one end away from the needle tip, and the probe handle has a threaded hole that is threaded to the screw; or the probe body has the threaded hole at one end away from the needle tip, and the probe handle has the screw.

5. The periodontal probe according to claim 3, characterized in that, The probe handle includes a handle sleeve and a handle rod. The handle sleeve is fitted around the outer periphery of the handle rod, and the handle rod is detachably connected to the probe head.

6. The periodontal probe according to claim 5, characterized in that, The handle sleeve is a flexible, soft material; and / or the handle bar is a rigid material that is not flexible.

7. The periodontal probe according to claim 5, characterized in that, The handle sleeve has an inner cavity for accommodating the handle rod, and the shape of the inner cavity matches the shape of the handle rod.

8. The periodontal probe according to claim 5, characterized in that, The handle includes a first end, a middle part, and a second end connected sequentially along a preset direction. The second end is detachably connected to the probe head. The maximum dimension of the middle part perpendicular to the preset direction is smaller than the maximum dimension of the second end perpendicular to the preset direction; and / or, the maximum dimension of the middle part perpendicular to the preset direction is smaller than the maximum dimension of the first end perpendicular to the preset direction.

9. The periodontal probe according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The probe handle has a cylindrical structure, and the diameter of the probe handle gradually decreases along the direction away from the probe head.

10. The periodontal probe according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the probe handle has an anti-slip structure at least at one end near the probe head.

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