Periodontal Scalers & Curettes: A Guide to Effective Calculus Removal

Effective periodontal therapy depends on having the right hand instrument for every surface and pocket depth. Scalers and curettes look similar at a glance, but they're built for different jobs. Here's how to tell them apart and choose a set that covers your caseload.

Scalers: supragingival calculus

Scalers have a pointed tip and a triangular cross-section, making them ideal for removing calculus above the gumline on tooth surfaces where the sharp point can safely reach into contact areas. Sickle scalers are the most common design for this kind of supragingival work.

Curettes: subgingival access

Curettes have a rounded toe and back, allowing them to be inserted subgingivally without traumatising the soft tissue of the pocket wall. This rounded design makes curettes the instrument of choice for root planing and subgingival calculus removal.

Universal vs. Gracey curettes

Universal curettes have two cutting edges per blade and can be used on any tooth surface, making them a versatile everyday choice. Gracey curettes, by contrast, are area-specific — each pattern (such as Gracey 1/2, 11/12, or 13/14) is angled for a particular tooth surface, giving better adaptation and a more efficient stroke in that specific area.

Building a working set

A practical starting set typically includes a few universal curettes for general use, plus a handful of Gracey patterns for anterior, posterior buccal/lingual, and posterior mesial/distal surfaces. Add sickle scalers for supragingival deposits and probes for charting and monitoring pocket depth.

Keeping your edge

A sharp cutting edge means fewer strokes, less patient discomfort, and better calculus removal. Inspect edges regularly and retire instruments once they can no longer be effectively sharpened.

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