Measuring periodontal pocket depth using manual and automated probe systems

Abstract EN

Objectives : To assess speed and accuracy of automated periodontal probe (PA-on) in comparison with a manual conventional periodontal probe (Williams) on a cadaveric porcine model.

Methods : Four experienced dental specialists assessed pocket depths on a fresh pig’s jaw using manual periodontal probe and automated periodontal probe (PA-on).

Eight teeth were chosen as test sites ; four maxillary and four mandibular.

The participants are dental specialists who are experts in using manual probes.

The participants received standardized training to use the automated probe.

The measurements were performed on three locations on labial surfaces of the tested teeth.

The total time to perform the measurements on eight teeth was recorded.

The data were collected and collated onto standardized tables.

Statistical analysis was carried out to assess time and pockets depths variability between manual and automated probe.

Results : Measuring periodontal pockets depths took less time when using PA-on rather than Williams.

The results also showed that the depths of periodontal pockets were always less when taken by PA-on automated probe.

This was statistically significant (P-value = 0.002).

Conclusion : PA-on automated periodontal probe offers an efficient method of detecting periodontal pockets depth in less time and providing more accurate measures.

PA-on has an additional advantage of immediate electronic store and analysis of measurements, along with other periodontal health indicators.

Further in vivo studies are in progress to evaluate the use of the automated probe in clinical practice.