Comparison analysis of pain experienced by patients during periodontal examination using thinner versus thicker probes

Kim, Soo Han; Hong, Ki Seok; Chung, Chin Hyung; Lim, Sung Bin

Abstract

During periodontal examination and periodontal recall visit, patients might feel pain. Probing with 0.45mm diameter probe, "overprobing" into connective tissue underlying periodontal pocket could be the primary aspect of pain. The purpose of present study, performed during recall visit, was to compare the levels of pain experienced by patients during periodontal probing using probes with the tip diameter of either 0.45mm or 0.63mm. Twenty patients were enrolled: 3 periodontists each exammined 20 patients at the Dankook university dental hospital. in each patient at six sites per tooth, diagonal maxillary/mandibular quadrants were probed with 0.45mm diameter and 0.63mm diameter probe. Lower pain responses following probing with the 0.63mm diameter probe as compared to the 0.45mm probe were observed for patients of therapist 2 and the upper VAS quartile Groups(P<0.05). For therapist 1 and 3 groups, no differences were found. Patient worry about the pain while dental treatment procedures. If therapist use 0.63mm diameter probe while periodontal examination and recall visit, the patient's pain and discomfort could be reduced. Therefore, patient will cooperate more during the treatment, which leads to a better result. Dental therapists should make an effort to minimize the degree of discomfort during treatment. Dental therapist periodically should evaluate this part of their skill by asking patients and promote this skill.