Top 10 Explorer & Probe Kits in Dentistry

Explorer and probe kits contain various diagnostic instruments used to detect caries (decay) and calculus and explore pocket characteristics, furcations, and restorations.

Table 1: Comparison of numerical data for Top 10 Explorer & Probe Kits

Table 2: Comparison of important features for Top 10 Explorer & Probe Kits

Top 10 Dental Explorers

1. Colorvue® Oxford Periodontal Probe

Product Description

The Colorvue® Oxford Periodontal Probe is a dual-ended diagnostic instrument specially designed for use in both natural dentition and implant assessments. With a vivid yellow resin tip on one end and a metal Qulix™-marked tip on the other, this probe combines visibility, safety, and precision in one ergonomic tool.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy, this probe is part of a starter kit that includes a #6 Satin Steel handle, one UNC15 metal probe tip, and six UNC15 Colorvue® resin tips. The Qulix™ markings are engineered to resist fading, chipping, and flaking, while the resin tips offer safe and gentle probing around implants and sensitive tissues. The twist-on tip design ensures quick and easy replacement, making this an efficient and patient-friendly option for periodontal evaluation.

Key Features

• Dual-ended probe with metal and resin tips
• Qulix™ markings for long-lasting readability
• Bright yellow resin tips enhance intraoral visibility
• Resin tips safe for implants and gentle on tissues
• Twist-on tip design allows quick tip replacement
• Ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handle for comfort and control
• Designed for implant and general periodontal assessment

Common Applications

• Measuring periodontal pocket depths in natural and implant dentition
• Periodontal charting and evaluation
• Safe probing around dental implants and sensitive tissue

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Colorvue® Oxford Periodontal Probe
Brand: Colorvue®
Tip Type: UNC15 (resin and metal ends)
Design Number: UNC15
Handle Type: #6 Satin Steel
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Satin Steel
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: Kit includes 1 metal tip, 6 resin tips, 1 handle
Product Type: Periodontal Probe
Color Coding: Yes
Kit Type: Colorvue® Probe Starter Kit
Measurement Markings: Qulix™ UNC15 (1-15 mm)

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Excellent visibility and comfort during use
• Resin tips praised for safety around implants
• Twist-on system is easy and efficient
• Reliable for both implant and general periodontal diagnostics

Top 10 Dental Expros

2. Colorvue® Biotype Probe System

Product Description

The Colorvue® Biotype Probe System is a diagnostic kit designed for fast, painless classification of gingival biotypes. It features color-coded resin tips that provide a safe and effective method for evaluating tissue thickness, making it especially suitable for use in implant and periodontal procedures.

Product Overview

This system includes three ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handles and twelve color-coded resin tips—four each in green, blue, and white—to identify thin, medium, and thick/very thick biotypes. The resin tips are gentle on soft tissue and safe for use around implants. Each tip is sterilizable up to 30 times, but care should be taken to avoid phenols and iodophors during sterilization to maintain material integrity. The twist-on tip design ensures quick and convenient replacements.

Key Features

• Enables quick, non-invasive gingival biotype assessment
• Color-coded resin tips: green (thin), blue (medium), white (thick/very thick)
• Safe for use on implants and sensitive tissue
• Sterilizable up to 30 times (avoid phenols and iodophors)
• Ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handles for comfort and control
• Twist-on tips for easy replacement and versatility

Common Applications

• Classification of gingival biotypes
• Pre-treatment planning for implants, crowns, and aesthetic procedures
• Safe periodontal assessment in sensitive areas

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Colorvue® Biotype Probe System
Brand: Colorvue®
Tip Type: Resin (color-coded)
Design Number: Not specified
Handle Type: #6 Satin Steel
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Satin Steel
Number of Ends: Single per tip
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: Kit includes 3 handles and 12 tips (4 each of green, blue, white)
Product Type: Biotype Probe System
Color Coding: Yes
Kit Type: Colorvue® Probe System
Sterilization Limit: Up to 30 times per tip

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Highly effective for biotype classification
• Gentle and safe for use on all tissue types, including implants
• Easy to clean, replace, and use repeatedly
• Improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning

3. Colorvue® Probe # 11 Kit

Product Description

The Colorvue® Probe #11 Kit is a diagnostic instrument system designed for comfortable and accurate periodontal assessments. Featuring vivid yellow tips with black markings, it enhances visibility against intraoral structures and is safe for both natural dentition and implants.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc., this kit includes one ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handle and six resin #11 probe tips. The probe tips are color-coded and marked at 3, 6, 8, and 11 mm for clear periodontal measurement. Made with optimal flexibility and a rounded tip, they provide a gentle probing experience and greater patient acceptability. The twist-on design allows for quick replacement of worn tips and efficient clinical use.

Key Features

• Bright yellow resin tips with black 3-6-8-11 mm markings
• Rounded tip design for enhanced patient comfort
• Safe for use around implants and natural dentition
• Twist-on tip system for easy replacement
• Ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handle for control and durability
• Color-coded for easy identification

Common Applications

• Periodontal pocket depth measurement
• Implant-friendly probing
• Routine periodontal exams and charting

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Colorvue® Probe #11 Kit
Brand: Colorvue®
Tip Type: Resin
Design Number: #11
Handle Type: #6 Satin Steel
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Satin Steel
Number of Ends: Single per tip
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: Kit includes 6 tips and 1 handle
Product Type: Periodontal Probe
Measurement Markings: 3-6-8-11 mm
Color Coding: Yes
Kit Type: Colorvue® Probe Kit

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• High contrast markings improve visibility and accuracy
• Comfortable and non-invasive for patients
• Reliable and safe for implant procedures
• Easy-to-replace tips support long-term clinical use

4. IMS Signature Series® ADA CDT Code

Product Description

The IMS Signature Series® ADA CDT Code Collection Kit is a comprehensive evaluation set designed to align with the American Dental Association’s Current Dental Terminology (CDT). It supports accurate procedural assessments at the start of preventative appointments and enhances efficiency through well-organized instrumentation and ergonomic design.

Product Overview

Manufactured to high-quality standards, this kit includes a blue 5-instrument exam cassette for safety and streamlined organization. It contains ergonomically designed diagnostic and periodontal instruments with satin steel handles. The included tools cover essential evaluation functions such as examination, exploration, and periodontal probing. Each kit is color-coded and organized for easy procedural identification and enhanced infection control.

Key Features

• Designed for use with ADA CDT codes and preventive assessments
• High-quality ergonomic instrumentation
• Includes small 5-instrument cassette for organization and protection
• Satin steel handles for comfort and tactile control
• Color-coded blue for easy identification
• Instruments suited for general diagnostics and periodontal charting

Common Applications

• Initial evaluations during preventative dental appointments
• General oral exams and periodontal assessments
• Streamlined procedural setup and compliance with CDT protocols

Technical Specifications

Product Name: IMS Signature Series® ADA CDT Code Collection Kit
Brand: IMS Signature Series®
Tip Type: Mixed (mirror, explorer, probe)
Design Number: Not specified
Handle Type: Satin Steel
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Satin Steel
Number of Ends: Mixed (single and double-ended instruments)
Manufacturer Name: Not specified
Package Quantity: 1 Kit
Product Type: Evaluation Kit
Kit Type: ADA CDT Code Evaluation Kit
Contains:

• 1 Small 5-instrument exam cassette (IM6058, blue)
• 1 #6 Satin steel mirror handle (MH6)
• 1 #5 Single-sided mirror head (MIR5)
• 1 #5 Double-ended explorer (EXD56)
• 1 UNC 1–12 Probe (PCPUNC126)
• 1 #11/12 ODU Explorer (EXD11/12A6)
• 1 #2 Nabers Probe 3-6-9-12 (PQ2N6)

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Excellent all-in-one kit for routine evaluations
• Organized and easy to use with minimal instrument handling
• Ergonomic and durable instrument construction
• Trusted for both educational and clinical settings

5. Periflex Home Irrigation Kit

Product Description

The Periflex Home Irrigation Kit is a complete oral hygiene solution designed to enhance at-home periodontal care. It provides users with the tools needed to clean interproximal areas, subgingival pockets, and the tongue effectively, promoting overall oral health between dental visits.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Vista Dental Products, this kit includes a Perioflex reservoir, six soft plastic Pocket-Probe tips for gentle irrigation, six interproximal flossers, one tongue cleaner, and one travel-size floss. Ideal for patients with periodontal concerns or implants, the kit supports comprehensive plaque removal and gum health maintenance.

Key Features

• Includes soft Pocket-Probe tips for gentle subgingival irrigation
• Perioflex reservoir for controlled home irrigation
• Interproximal flossers for tight space cleaning
• Tongue cleaner for enhanced breath freshness
• Compact travel floss for convenient hygiene on the go

Common Applications

• Daily at-home periodontal irrigation
• Interdental cleaning for patients with braces, bridges, or implants
• Maintenance of oral hygiene between professional cleanings

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Periflex Home Irrigation Kit
Brand: Periflex
Tip Type: Soft plastic Pocket-Probe
Design Number: Not applicable
Handle Type: Not applicable
Handle Shape: Not applicable
Number of Ends: Not applicable
Manufacturer Name: Vista Dental Products
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Oral Irrigation Kit
Contains:

• 6 Pocket-Probe tips
• 1 Perioflex reservoir
• 6 interproximal flossers
• 1 tongue cleaner
• 1 travel-size floss

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Convenient and easy to use for home periodontal care
• Gentle yet effective for sensitive gum areas
• Great tool for maintaining oral hygiene between dental visits
• Patients appreciate its portability and thorough cleaning ability

6. Colorvue® Probe # 12 Kit

Product Description

The Colorvue® Probe #12 Kit is a diagnostic instrument system designed for clear, accurate periodontal assessments. Featuring bright yellow resin tips with black millimeter markings, the probe enhances visibility against intraoral structures and is gentle enough for use around implants.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc., this kit includes one ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handle and six twist-on resin probe tips. The #12 probe tips are marked at 3, 6, 9, and 12 mm, providing reliable periodontal pocket depth readings. The tips offer optimal flexibility and a rounded end to improve patient comfort. Designed for safety, ease of use, and repeated sterilization, the Colorvue® system ensures both clinical precision and efficient workflow.

Key Features

• Yellow resin tips with black 3-6-9-12 mm markings for enhanced contrast
• Rounded, flexible tips for increased patient comfort
• Safe for use on implants and natural dentition
• Twist-on design for fast tip replacement
• Ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handle for control and durability
• Color-coded for quick identification in clinical settings

Common Applications

• Periodontal pocket depth measurement
• Implant-safe probing
• Routine periodontal evaluations and charting

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Colorvue® Probe #12 Kit
Brand: Colorvue®
Tip Type: Resin
Design Number: #12
Handle Type: #6 Satin Steel
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Satin Steel
Number of Ends: Single per tip
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: Kit includes 6 tips and 1 handle
Product Type: Periodontal Probe Kit
Measurement Markings: 3-6-9-12 mm
Color Coding: Yes
Kit Type: Colorvue® Probe Kit

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Excellent visibility and comfort during use
• Ideal for implant cases and sensitive patients
• Durable and easy-to-replace tips support long-term use
• Highly rated for reliability and diagnostic accuracy

7. Sterile i-Pak® Intraoral Exam Pack

Product Description

The Sterile i-Pak® Intraoral Exam Pack is a single-use, sterile 3-in-1 examination kit designed for convenient and hygienic dental exams. It minimizes cross-contamination risks and eliminates the need for instrument sterilization, making it ideal for high-volume, emergency, or off-site procedures.

Product Overview

Manufactured by AD Surgical, this disposable kit includes a dental mirror with antifog coating and a double-ended instrument combining a universal 3-6-9 mm periodontal probe and a high-grade stainless steel explorer. The probe features a tapered, rounded tip for excellent readability and gentle patient contact. This sterile set is safe for use on titanium implants and enhances workflow efficiency in a variety of clinical settings.

Key Features

• Sterile, single-use exam kit
• 3-6-9 mm universal style periodontal probe with rounded tip
• High-grade stainless steel explorer
• Antifog dental mirror for clear visibility
• Safe for use on titanium implants
• Ideal for high-volume exams, emergencies, and off-site use

Common Applications

• Routine intraoral examinations
• Emergency dental treatments
• Exams in mobile clinics, schools, or outreach programs

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Sterile i-Pak® Intraoral Exam Pack
Brand: i-Pak®
Tip Type: Explorer / Probe (3-6-9 mm, tapered round tip)
Design Number: Not specified
Handle Type: Disposable
Handle Shape: Round
Number of Ends: Double (explorer/probe), plus 1 mirror
Manufacturer Name: AD Surgical
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Sterile Disposable Exam Kit
Measurement Markings: 3-6-9 mm
Contains: 1 disposable mirror (antifog), 1 disposable double-ended probe/explorer
Number of Pieces: 2
Old Manufacturer #: D002-007-P

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Convenient and hygienic for busy practices
• Comfortable probe design with clear markings
• Trusted for mobile and high-volume clinical environments
• Great solution for infection control and quick exams

8. Goldstein ColorVue® Probe

Product Description

The Goldstein ColorVue® Probe is a precision periodontal instrument designed to assess bone and tissue attachment levels during diagnostic and restorative procedures. Its narrow, flexible tip and bright color coding support accurate and patient-friendly measurements.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy, this probe system features a #6 Satin Steel handle and seven interchangeable Goldstein ColorVue® resin tips. The tips display 1/2 mm increments up to 3 mm and additional markings at 11, 12, and 13 mm, enabling quicker, clearer readings. Designed for comfort and clinical versatility, the ColorVue® probe enhances periodontal assessments while maintaining a gentle approach for improved patient experience.

Key Features

• Measures bone and tissue attachment levels with high precision
• Bright color-coded markings in 0.5 mm increments up to 3 mm, plus 11–13 mm
• Narrow, flexible tip enhances patient comfort
• Resin tips are safe, gentle, and implant-friendly
• Twist-on design for quick tip changes
• Includes ergonomic #6 Satin Steel handle

Common Applications

• Periodontal charting and diagnostic evaluation
• Assessment of tissue and bone attachment during restorative procedures
• Safe probing around implants and sensitive tissue areas

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Goldstein ColorVue® Probe
Brand: ColorVue®
Tip Type: Resin (Color-coded)
Design Number: Not specified
Handle Type: #6 Satin Steel
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Satin Steel
Number of Ends: Single per tip
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: 1 handle and 7 tips per kit
Product Type: Periodontal Probe
Measurement Markings: 0.5 mm increments up to 3 mm; 11-12-13 mm
Color Coding: Yes
Kit Type: ColorVue® Probe System

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Loved for precise, quick readings
• Comfortable for patients with narrow, flexible tips
• Easy to use and ideal for implant assessments
• Durable handle and long-lasting resin tips

9. Colorvue® Perioscreen® Probes

Product Description

The Colorvue® Perioscreen® Probes by Hu-Friedy offer a fast, visual method for initial periodontal screening. With color-coded markings and a disposable tip system, they provide an eco-friendly and efficient tool for assessing periodontal pocket depths before definitive probing.

Product Overview

This kit includes 12 disposable tips marked at 3, 5, 7, and 10 mm, and 2 ergonomic metal handles. The probe tips feature bold green and red color coding to clearly indicate the presence or absence of periodontal disease. Designed with environmental responsibility in mind, only the plastic tips are discarded after use, while the reusable metal handles support sustainability and reduce waste.

Key Features

• Fast screening of periodontal pocket depths
• Markings at 3, 5, 7, and 10 mm for efficient initial assessment
• Green and red zones visually indicate periodontal health status
• Reusable ergonomic metal handles for reduced environmental impact
• Disposable resin tips for hygiene and convenience
• Ideal for pre-diagnostic periodontal screening

Common Applications

• Preliminary periodontal health assessments
• Visual screening prior to comprehensive probing
• Eco-conscious clinical practices using reusable instrumentation

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Colorvue® Perioscreen® Probes
Brand: Colorvue®
Tip Type: Resin (color-coded)
Design Number: 10 Perioscreen
Handle Type: Reusable metal
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Metal (recyclable)
Number of Ends: Single per tip
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: Kit includes 12 tips and 2 handles
Product Type: Periodontal Screening Probe
Measurement Markings: 3-5-7-10 mm
Color Coding: Green and Red
Kit Type: Perioscreen 10

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Simple and effective for initial periodontal evaluations
• Loved for the color-coded visual cues
• Appreciated for its eco-friendly reusable handle design
• Quick and comfortable for patients during screenings

10. Gold Collection Exam Kit

Product Description

The Gold Collection Exam Kit is a premium diagnostic set designed for comprehensive intraoral evaluations. Featuring high-quality ergonomic instruments with a luxurious gold finish, this kit offers precision, comfort, and style for routine dental exams and charting procedures.

Product Overview

Crafted for dental professionals seeking both function and elegance, the Gold Collection Exam Kit includes essential diagnostic tools such as a mirror, explorer, and periodontal probe—all designed with exceptional tactile sensitivity and a refined aesthetic. The instruments are housed in a compact, efficient cassette that enhances organization and maintains sterility. Engineered for repeated clinical use, the instruments deliver durability and performance in high-volume settings.

Key Features

• Includes mirror, explorer, and probe for full oral evaluation
• Premium gold finish for enhanced visibility and professional appearance
• Ergonomic handles for superior comfort and control
• High-grade stainless steel instruments ensure durability
• Compact cassette improves workflow and storage efficiency

Common Applications

• Routine intraoral examinations and charting
• Periodontal pocket depth assessments
• Diagnostic evaluations in general and cosmetic dentistry

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Gold Collection Exam Kit
Brand: Not specified
Tip Type: Mixed (mirror, explorer, probe)
Design Number: Not specified
Handle Type: Ergonomic
Handle Shape: Round
Handle Material: Stainless Steel with gold finish
Number of Ends: Mixed (single and double-ended instruments)
Manufacturer Name: Not specified
Package Quantity: 1 Kit
Product Type: Diagnostic Exam Kit
Color Coding: No
Kit Type: Comprehensive Examination Kit
Measurement Markings: Standard probe markings (not specified)

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

• Instruments perform with excellent tactile precision
• Gold finish adds visual appeal and better contrast intraorally
• Durable and reliable for daily use in busy clinics
• A favorite among providers seeking a premium exam kit