Dental mirror, also known as the mouth mirror is the most important instrument of dentists. If you have ever been to a dentist, you may have noticed that the first instrument he uses for his diagnosis is the mirror. It is pretty hard to solve a dental problem that can’t be seen, thus making dental mirrors indispensable. The mirror is small enough to be taken inside the patient’s mouth to see the parts that are not easily seen by the naked eye. The mirrors are usually made up of concave mirror as concave mirrors produce highly magnified images. Generally, the handle is attached to a pen light that throws light on the objects to be seen. Because it is reflective with its lighting properties, cavities, food lodgings, loose braces are easily detected with its help.

Shapes and sizes

The body of the mirror is straight like a pen, and the tip is round where the lens if fitted. The mirror is a little tilted to make it easier for the dentist to take it into the sulcal regions. Hence, the whole mirror can be divided into two parts: handle and head. The handle is almost of the same size in most cases. Only the size of the head changes according to the requirements. There are generally three sizes available: 2, 4 and 5. But the most common ones are No. 4 and No. 5. No.2 is also sometimes used when the dentist has to reach narrower and smaller places in the mouth. The handle (body) is usually made up of metal or durable plastic. It is also provided with a grip pad nowadays. In some cases, mirrors are fitted on both sides, and the intersection of the mirror and the handle is also made flexible. Plane, magnifying, front surface or rhodium coated mirrors can be used as the mirror.

Types of mouth mirrors

• Front surface mirrors: This one will produce a normal and perfect image.
• Flat surface mirrors: The mirrors those are disposed after a certain time uses this one.
• Concave mirrors: This one provides the best view, magnifying the images to a large extent. And hence, making it more convenient for the dentist to diagnose.
• Double-sided mirrors: This one is used for pushing aside the cheeks, and simultaneously viewing the intended portions indirectly.

With the advancement of technology, even dental mirrors have been upgraded. New HD dental mirrors are available that improve the view up to 40%. Mirrors with in-built suction are also available nowadays. A mirror called crystal mouth mirror has been affirmed to improve the brilliance and color of the images.

Uses of mouth mirrors

 

• First and foremost, they provide the sight of area not generally visible. Hence, they give clear images of cavities and other problems.
• If attached with light, it illuminates the areas of gums and teeth where natural light is unable to reach.
• It draws back all the loose muscles like lips, cheek and tongue painlessly .Thus, it serves as a companion of other cleaning dental tools due to this function.
• It also prevents the dentist from sitting into improper postures, thus making it comfortable for the dentist as well as the patient.
• This mirror is not just confined to be used by dentists; it can be used at home by us also. It is used at labs to view objects that are not well-illuminated. It is also used for many other purposes like checking the car or reaching dark places.

Purchasing a mouth mirror

Go online and find the different products available. Then, check their reviews before you decide on one. You can also find people’s reactions about the product in the internet. Do a little homework and compare the prices at different places so that you can get the best price available. You may also find mirrors on sale so make sure you search well before you finally buy one. If you have specifications about the mirror, you can directly contact the manufacturer and order one.

Dental mirrors, thus contribute largely to everyday dentistry diagnosis and many other purposes.