Remote-recording periodontal depth probe

Abstract

An apparatus for the simultaneous measurement and remote recordation of the depth of the gingival sulci and other similar anatomical recesses. The apparatus comprises a periodontal depth probe with a protruding, removably-attached cylindrical probe tip partially ensheathed by a slideable tubular sleeve which is electrically connected via a transducer within the probe body to a remote recording device. Translational movement of the slideable tubular sleeve partially sheathing the probe tip varies an electrical signal between the probe and the remote recording device according to the length of probe tip exposed. An operator-controlled foot switch is connected between the probe and the remote recording device to allow the operator to insert the probe tip into the gingival sulcus and adjust the slideable sleeve until it touches the margin of the gingiva before actuating the remote recording device. When activated, the recorder produces a record of the electrical signal corresponding to the length of the exposed probe tip and thus representative of the depth of the gingival sulcus at the measured location. In one embodiment the movement of the slideable sleeve is converted into an electrical signal by proportionately exposing a light-sensitive circuit element, such as a photocell, to a fixed intensity light source enclosed in the probe handle. In a second embodiment the slideable sleeve is attached to an electrical contact point that is in movable contact with a series of fixed contact points or taps, each of which corresponds to a discrete length of exposed (unsleeved) probe tip. The remote recording device converts the electrical signals from either embodiment into a permanent record as well as a visual display of the measured sulcus depth at the various tooth locations.