FAQ’S
1) what is the difference between the original tooth slooth and the tooth slooth II crown seater?
The original Tooth Slooth has been available since 1984 and is used for diagnosing fractured teeth only. The Tooth Slooth II-Crown Seater is a dual headed instrument for multi-purpose use. The smaller Tooth Slooth head helps diagnose fractures in small mouths and 3rd molars. The features at the opposing end of the instrument may be used for the cementation of crowns, onlays and inlays.
2) Why would I need the original instrument? It seems the Tooth Slooth II-Crown Seater does everything the original instrument does and more.
The original instrument was designed with an indentation or dimple that fits on most standard size cusps tips. Tooth Slooth II-Crown Seater was designed with a smaller Tooth Slooth head and smaller indentation to isolate smaller cusps tips. Most dentists use both instruments in their practice.
3) CAN THE INSTRUMENT BE AUTOCLAVED AND CHEMICLAVED?
Yes, refer to “Sterilization”.
4) What purpose does the notch and point serve on the Tooth Slooth II?
The notch holds anterior crowns in place while cementing. The point has two purposes.
1. It may be used in the fossa area to aid in the cementation process, and
2. For use in the fossa area when an amalgam is present to test for sensitivity.
5) I live outside the USA and Canada. Are these instruments available through foreign distributors or supply companies?
Yes, however the number of foreign distributors is limited. You may email or write for information regarding a distributor in your country.
6) I would like to know more about your dental instruments and “cracked tooth syndrome”.
Please refer to our website page entitled “References”.
7) I’VE ALWAYS USED A COTTON ROLL OR ORANGEWOOD STICK FOR DIAGNOSING FRACTURES. WHY IS THE TOOTH SLOOTH BETTER?
Tooth Slooth works because the indentation or dimple in the instrument allows the dentist to isolate only one cusp at a time, directing bite pressure to the suspect cusp. When a pain response is elicited, the dentist knows precisely which tooth and cusp are involved. The orangewood stick and cotton roll usually prove vague and can easily slip off a cusp tip.
8) My intraoral camera shows fractures. Is this better than using the tooth slooth?
The intraoral camera and transillumination are two good methods of diagnosing a fractured tooth. However, many craze and crack lines may show up using these methods. The dentist must still determine which of these craze or crack lines may be causing pain. Tooth Slooth enables the dentist to isolate and test these suspect areas to determine which cusp is actually fractured. In addition, the intraoral camera and transillumination may not be effective when an amalgam is present.