The accuracy of the Vivacare true pressure-sensitive periodontal probe system in terms of probing force

Background: The Hunter TPS Vivacare periodontal probe was invented to perfo rm consistent, accurate and reliable periodontal examinations "with control led pressures". Aims: The aims of the present investigation are 3: (1) what is the accuracy of the probing force when various probe heads are used in a correct operat ion position; (2) what is the effect of over- and under-reading of the oper ation position on the probing force; (3) what is the accuracy of the probin g force when different probe handles are used. The Hunter TPS probe consist s of a tip connected to a special spring mechanism, which controls the pres sure extended to the probe tip. According to the manufacturer, the force in dicator lines coincide at approximately 20 g force. Method: The lest apparatus consisted of an electronic balance, and an elect ronic caliper. 12 TPS probes tips and 3 handles were selected to test wheth er there were differences in force between probes. Each probe tip was adapt ed to the same handle and tested 10 times. In a 2nd test, the TPS-handles a nd over-, accurate-, and under-readings were analyzed as to how they affect the probing force. The 12 TPS probe tips were connected to each of the 3 h andles and tested 10X for each of 3 handles and levels. Results: The range in force between TPS probe tips was 8.4 g (p<0.001). For the handles as well as for each of the readings of the operating positions , the differences were small and non-significant. However, between over- an d under-readings, there were statistical significant differences. Conclusions: The conclusion is that the variation in force between probe ti ps is high and always above the manufacturer's "approximately" 20 g. As lon g as the same handle and the same probe tip are used together, and the exam iner is reading the markings correct, the. TPS probe is adequate.