Single-ended and double-ended dental explorers in the common numbered patterns, for examining tooth surfaces, calculus and restoration margins. Made for distributors, importers, dental suppliers and private-label brands, to your drawing, reference sample or catalogue pattern, in bulk or under your own label.
B2B · OEM · PRIVATE LABEL · BULK DENTAL INSTRUMENTS
A dental explorer is a hand instrument with a thin, flexible tip that tapers to a sharp point. It is used to examine teeth for decay, calculus and other abnormalities, and to check restorations. Explorers are made as single-ended and double-ended instruments in many numbered patterns. Unlike a periodontal probe, an explorer is not a graduated measuring instrument.
Pattern names overlap between catalogues. The double-ended 17/23 pairs a #17 end, used for subgingival calculus detection, with a #23 shepherd's hook. Many catalogues list the same instrument as a double-ended #5. The 11/12 is the Old Dominion University (ODU) pattern, and the 3CH is a cowhorn. We quote from your drawing, reference piece or catalogue number and not from the name alone.
Confirmed in writing against your drawing or sample before production.
| Product | Dental explorer |
|---|---|
| Also listed as | Dental diagnostic explorer, dental examination explorer, double-ended explorer |
| Instrument type | Dental hand instrument for tactile examination |
| Working end | Thin tapered tip with a sharp point; shape set by the pattern |
| Ends | Single-ended or double-ended, per pattern |
| Pattern examples | 17/23 (also listed as #5), #23, 11/12 ODU, 3CH cowhorn, 2 pigtail |
| Tip length and angle | Confirmed from your drawing or reference piece |
| Handle | Diameter and grip style confirmed from your reference |
| Overall length | Confirmed from your drawing or reference piece |
| Material | Stainless steel; grade confirmed in the agreed specification |
| Finish | To be agreed, for example satin or polished |
| Supply condition | Sterile or non-sterile, as agreed in the quotation |
| Packaging and marking | Bulk, standard or buyer-branded; logo or reference marking by agreement |
The same instrument often carries more than one name. Use the table as a starting point for your enquiry, not as a clinical reference.
These details let us quote without back-and-forth:
| Pattern | Ends | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 17/23 (also #5) | Double | #17 end for subgingival calculus, #23 shepherd's hook |
| #23 | Single | Shepherd's hook |
| 11/12 (ODU) | Double | Calculus detection in deep pockets, especially interproximal |
| 3CH | Double | Cowhorn |
| 2 | Single | Pigtail |
Explorers sit in the basic dental examination set next to a mirror and probe, and in hygiene kits.
The fine tip is used to feel tooth surfaces, pits and fissures, and the margins of restorations.
Patterns such as the 17/23 and 11/12 are used to detect calculus, including below the gumline.
Distributors build kits from an explorer, a periodontal probe, a sickle scaler and curettes.
The tip decides the job. Buyers usually stock all three.
| Instrument | Working end | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Dental explorer | Thin tapered tip with a sharp point | Tactile examination of teeth, calculus and restorations |
| Periodontal probe | Graduated markings | Measuring pocket depth |
| Sickle scaler | Pointed triangular blade | Removing supragingival calculus |
Tip shapes, sizes and numbering vary by manufacturer and catalogue. Use your approved drawing or sample as the final reference.
Iron Art makes and supplies dental and surgical instruments for buyers who want a defined specification, a sample to approve and repeatable supply. See our OEM and private-label services for how programmes are set up.
Send the pattern number, a drawing or a reference piece, and the quantities you expect to order. We check it against your requirements, confirm dimensions, finish and packaging, and agree a sample before production begins.
These points apply whichever supplier you use.
A straightforward route for distributors, importers and private-label buyers sourcing dental explorers.
Pattern number or reference piece, quantities, finish and packaging.
Specification confirmed in writing, with any OEM or marking options priced.
Inspect a sample against your reference before production is released.
Reorders follow the approved specification, including private-label packs.
Short answers on patterns, tips, materials and supply.
It is a hand instrument with a thin, flexible tip that tapers to a sharp point, made in single-ended and double-ended patterns. It is used to examine teeth for decay, calculus and other abnormalities, and to check restorations.
It is used for tactile examination of tooth surfaces, pits and fissures, restoration margins and calculus. Which pattern suits which task depends on the tip shape.
None in most catalogues. Both names describe a double-ended instrument with a #17 end for subgingival calculus detection and a #23 shepherd's hook. Some makers use one name, some the other.
It is the Old Dominion University pattern, a double-ended explorer used for calculus detection in deep pockets, especially on interproximal surfaces.
They are explorers with curved tips. The 3CH is a cowhorn pattern, and the 2 is a pigtail. Check the tip shape against a drawing before ordering.
An explorer has a sharp tapered tip for feel. A periodontal probe carries graduated markings and is used to measure pocket depth.
Stainless steel explorers are generally intended for repeated use, with cleaning and sterilisation following the buyer's validated routine. Sterile single-use explorers also exist, so state which supply condition you need. The exact steel grade and finish are confirmed in your specification.
Yes. Send a drawing, photograph or reference piece. Tip length and angle, handle, length and finish are confirmed in writing before production.
Yes. Marking, reference numbers and packaging can be agreed per programme, and quantities are discussed per order.
Pattern name or number, single or double-ended, handle style, length, material and finish, quantity, packaging and marking. A photograph of both tips speeds things up.
Instruments that go with explorers in an examination or hygiene kit. Browse all dental instruments.
Match images and specifications to the exact approved instrument. Contact Iron Art for dimensions, finish, packaging and OEM requirements.
Tell us the pattern, single or double-ended, quantity and packaging. A drawing, photograph or reference piece will speed things up.