IMPROVED ENDOSCOPIC METHOD AND DEVICE FOR SUBGINGIVAL DENTAL PROCEDURES

摘要

This invention is an improved endoscopic system (100) for visualizing subgingival dental procedures. The device comprises a dilator projection (102) incorporated into or onto the body of a dental instrument (10) utilized to remove plaque, and calculus from subgingival tooth surfaces. The projection (102) preferably comprises a thin, flat shield portion (104) having an arcuate shank portion (106) extending therefrom. In use, the shield portion (104) of the dilator projection (102) is operative to dilate or spread the gingiva away from the adjacent tooth surfaces upon which the dental instrument (10) is utilized to remove plaque, and calculus. Formed within the shank portion (106) of the dilator projection (102) is at least one lumen for receiving an endoscopic viewing (20), apparatus, that receives, and transmits an optical image from the interior of the gingival sulcus or periodontal pocket to an image displaying device (36) positioned outside the patient's body. Additional lumens may be formed within the shank portion (106) of the dilator projection (102) for the infusion of fluid or suction/aspiration.