The handle of the instrument is divided into simple (straight) or complex (Angle). Generally speaking, the simple shanks is designed to be used in areas as easy to enter as the front teeth. More complex or angled shanks are designed for more inaccessible areas such as posterior teeth. Shanks has different lengths and strengths.
Long or long shank legs are designed to get into the periodontal pocket. Hard, thick mountain feet are used to remove sediment. Flexible, thin lower legs provide greater tactile sensitivity to remove fine stones and roots. A terminal bar extends between the working end and the first. Most of the instruments are designed to run parallel to roots or crowns.
The use of oral health instruments varies greatly, including differences in toe and tip length, keratosis, cutting edge and strength of work. Many of the edge scaling tools have shorter, thinner work ends that allow deep, narrow periodontal pockets.
