What is the main use of a periodontal hoe?

The primary function of a periodontal hoe is to remove stubborn calculus from the surfaces of teeth, especially in subgingival areas where traditional scaling instruments might struggle. The design of a periodontal hoe facilitates effective debridement, making it particularly useful for addressing calculus that is firmly attached to the tooth structure.

This instrument has a sharp edge that allows dental professionals to scrape deposits efficiently, which is critical for maintaining periodontal health and preventing disease. By effectively removing calculus, the periodontal hoe helps in reducing inflammation and allows for better cleaning during periodontal therapies.

While other options propose functions related to dental care, they do not align with the specific role of a periodontal hoe. Adjusting dental crowns pertains to different dental procedures, cleaning dental instruments involves maintenance rather than treatment, and checking for cavities requires diagnostic tools such as explorers or X-rays, rather than the use of a hoe.