What instrument is used specifically to assess furcations?

The Nabers probe is specifically designed for assessing furcations in multirooted teeth. This instrument has a curved design and a blunt tip that allows for access to the anatomical areas where the roots divide, which are often difficult to assess with other instruments. The unique shape of the Nabers probe enables the dental hygienist or dentist to measure the depth and condition of the furcation areas, providing essential information for diagnosing periodontal disease and planning appropriate treatment.

While other instruments like the explorer, periodontal probe, and measuring tape have their uses in dental assessments, they do not have the specialized design required for effective furcation assessment. The explorer is more suitable for detecting caries and irregularities on tooth surfaces, the periodontal probe is used for measuring pocket depths around teeth but is not specifically designed for furcation evaluation, and the measuring tape is typically used for studying extraoral dimensions and is not a clinical dental tool for assessing periodontal health.