Sharpening of Periodontal Instruments

Sharpening of Periodontal Instruments

During periodontal surgical procedures, it is imperative to have sharp instruments. A sharp, well maintained instrument will insure that the surgery is performed with the utmost care. Clean dissection with properly cared for instruments will not only decrease surgical time but increase post operative healing as well.

Objective and Evaluation

The objective of sharpening periodontal instruments is to restore a fine, thin linear cutting edge. This can be done by sharpening stones, mounted rotary stones, or unmounted stones. When dull instrument is held under a light, the rounded surface of cutting edge reflects back. A sharp instrument will not reflect light. Tactile evaluation of sharpness should be performed by drawing instrument across acrylic rod such as a sharpening stick or saliva ejector.

Principles of Sharpening:

The first principle of instrument sharpening is to choose a suitable stone. Stones are graded by their level of coarseness. Experienced operators are more likely to use a coarse stone as it hastens the procedure. Those who are new to sharpening instruments may want to consider a smooth stone to minimize error. Always use a sterilized sharpening stone as bacteria can be transferred from a dirty instrument onto other surfaces. Once a sterilized stone is chosen, place the instrument on the stone and establish a proper angle.

This angle is normally determined by the manufactures' recommendation. Maintain a stable, firm grasp of both instrument and sharpening stone while avoiding excessive pressure. Begin to sharpen the stone with long, smooth strokes. Sharpen the instrument with several strokes then test the sharpness with either an acrylic rod or saliva ejector. Desired sharpness is generally operator dependent. Avoid formation of a wire edge as this can increase the possibility of instrument fracture. Always lubricate the stone during sharpening to preserve the life of the instrument.

Specific Instrument Sharpening Techniques: