Every examination starts with the same three instruments: a mouth mirror, an explorer and a probe. Together with college pliers, they form the basic diagnostic set used thousands of times a year in a busy practice. Small improvements in quality make a noticeable difference.
Mouth mirrors
Mirror types
- Plane (flat) mirrors — show a true image but can produce a faint double image.
- Front-surface mirrors — reflective coating on the front, giving a sharp image with no double reflection. Preferred for detailed work.
- Concave mirrors — magnify slightly but distort the image.
Sizes
Mirror heads are numbered by diameter; size 4 and 5 are the most common. Smaller heads suit children and posterior access; larger heads give a wider view.
Handles
Mirror heads usually screw into separate handles. Choose lightweight handles with good grip; hollow or wider handles reduce hand fatigue.
Other instruments in the set
- Explorer — for detecting calculus and checking margins.
- Periodontal probe — for measuring pocket depths.
- College pliers — for cotton rolls and small items.
Uses of the mirror beyond seeing
- Retracting the cheek and tongue.
- Reflecting light into dark areas.
- Protecting soft tissue during cavity preparation.
Caring for mirrors
Mirror surfaces scratch easily. Clean them separately or in a cassette slot, avoid abrasive scrubbing and replace heads when scratches or clouding appear. Mirror heads are a consumable item; budget for regular replacement.
Standardising diagnostic sets
Because diagnostic sets are used so often, it makes sense to keep several identical sets per room. Pre-assembled sets in cassettes simplify turnover between patients.
Aurix International supplies diagnostic instruments individually and as sets. Build a custom diagnostic kit.
