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Nabers furcation probe
Also called: Nabers probe, furcation probe, Nabers 1N/2N
A curved probe that hooks into the furcation, where a molar's roots split.
On teeth with more than one root, the furcation is the spot where the roots split apart. Gum disease can open that area. The Nabers probe has a curved, blunt tip that swings in between the roots so the operator can feel how deep the opening goes. Some versions (such as the 2N) have color bands at 3, 6, 9 and 12 mm.
How to spot it
- A deeply curved tip, like a smooth hook, with a blunt end.
- Often double-ended with mirror-image curves.
- Unlike a straight probe, it is curved; unlike an explorer, its tip is blunt.
What it is used for
- Checking furcations on molars (and upper first premolars) during periodontal exams.
Safety and care
- Critical item (it goes into soft tissue or touches bone): clean it, package it and heat-sterilize it after every patient.
Related
Sources: Gehrig JS, Shin DE. Fundamentals of Periodontal Instrumentation and Advanced Root Instrumentation, 9th ed. Jones & Bartlett, 2023 (plus Newman & Carranza's Clinical Periodontology), Ergodenta. Periodontal Probes Guide: UNC-15, Williams, WHO, Naber's & CPITN. ; UNC-15 product listing, Hu-Friedy Group. 2N Color Coded Nabers Probe (3-6-9-12 markings)