Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
By Dr Betty Zacharias, North Carlton Dental Group, VIC
This is a measuring tool to assist orthodontists with interproximal reduction when undertaking orthodontic treatment. The gauge is very accurate when confirming the amount of enamel removed during proximal reduction.
What’s good about it
When fitting a patient with clear aligners, I often need to create a space for teeth movement. It depends on the specific treatment plan but it’s important to be accurate. This gauge measures increments as small as 0.1 millimetres, increasing incrementally through seven different thicknesses. This range of gauges allows you to confirm exactly how much the enamel has been reduced, ensuring there is enough room for the treatment.
It’s a simple tool; just a set of stainless-steel gauges attached to a ring. It’s designed purely for orthodontic work and is accurate and effective. It’s autoclaveable but it is recommended to keep the gauge away from dissimilar metals during sterilisation to minimise the risk of oxidation, which could potentially affect its accuracy.
It’s fast and easy to use and causes no discomfort for the patient. This also means there is less chair time. The gauges are small but are well-designed and easy to handle.
What’s not so good
I believe there are high-tech options that do the same job but I still prefer this little tool. It’s accurate, effective and inexpensive. Care must also be taken not to bend the individual gauges.
