Safety Gear

• Dental work must remain completely sterile to prevent the transmission of any bacteria or diseases. For that reason, one of the most important parts of a dentist's arsenal is the safety gear. According to Dr. Susan Wells, eye protection and latex gloves protect both the dentist and the patient. A more recent safety device is the dental dam, which is a piece of rubber that fits over the patient's mouth to keep blood contained during a surgical procedure.
  
  

Examination Tools

• These tools allow dentists to take a closer look at a patient's teeth and gums. Dentists may need to manipulate the mouth and tissues within in order to properly diagnose the oral health of a patient. Bright lights are often used to help improve visibility in the mouth. Dental mirrors also allow dentists to see every angle of the mouth and teeth. Retractors are tools that are used to keep the mouth open wide or the tongue out of view.
  
  

Restorative Tools

• Restorative tools are those that help to restore the surfaces of the teeth. They are especially useful for removing plaque. An excavator, which is a long tool with a spoon-like end, helps to scrape buildup out of the crevices along the gum line and between teeth. Of course, floss and a simple toothbrush are also handy when cleaning the teeth.
  
  

Dental Drills

• High-speed drills are often used by dentists when cleaning the teeth and preparing the teeth for a filling. According to the official website of Colgate, dentists refer to drills as a "handpiece," and these drills have metal cones at the end that can cut through enamel. Dental drills are made in various sizes so that they can fit in different areas of the mouth.
  
  

Periodontal Tools

• Sometimes, teeth require a deep cleaning known as periodontal scaling. This involves the removal of plaque and calculus on the teeth and under the gum line. The National Institutes of Health describe periodontal tools as being typically stainless steel with a grip that is easy for the dentist to hold. At the end of a periodontal tool is a small blade, which helps to scrape hard material from the teeth. Periodontal tools come in various sizes to fit different areas of the mouth.