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What is the function of the long blunt working end on a dental probe?
To conduct an electrical current
To reflect light
To measure the periodontal pocket depth
To apply pressure to the gums
The correct answer is: To measure the periodontal pocket depth
The function of the long blunt working end on a dental probe is primarily to measure periodontal pocket depth. This specific design allows the probe to navigate around the contours of the tooth and into the sulcus or pocket surrounding it without causing harm or discomfort to the periodontal tissue. By gently inserting the probe into the sulcus, the dental professional can accurately assess the depth, which is critical for diagnosing periodontal disease and planning appropriate treatment. The other options, while they may suggest potential uses for dental instruments, do not align with the primary purpose of a dental probe. Conducting electrical current, reflecting light, or applying pressure to the gums does not serve the primary function of assessing periodontal health, which is why measuring the pocket depth is crucial in determining the state of a patient’s gum health and overall oral hygiene.