About Dental Explorer-Probe Combinations
An explorer-probe combination brings a dental explorer and a periodontal probe together. The explorer is used for tactile examination; the probe provides a graduated measurement reference. The pairing identifies the instrument more clearly than the term "combination" alone.
The #23 explorer and Williams probe
- #23 explorer: a fine, pointed end for tactile examination of tooth surfaces and restoration margins.
- Williams periodontal probe: a graduated end that gives a measurement reference for periodontal measurement and charting.
Neither end is a scaler; the instrument is for examination and measurement.
Choosing a combination
An explorer-probe combination is defined by its pairing, and the two ends are chosen independently:
- Explorer figure: "#23" names the explorer end. It is not a probe scale.
- Probe pattern: "Williams" names the probe end and its marking convention. Other probe patterns use different markings.
- Handle form: hollow, solid or another style is a separate construction choice.
A #23 explorer paired with a different probe pattern, or a different explorer paired with a Williams probe, is a different instrument. If your tray list calls for a #23/Williams combination, both names must appear in the required configuration. A probe-only instrument serves a different arrangement, where the explorer is a separate instrument.
"Double-ended" describes one instrument with two working ends. It does not mean two instruments.
Requesting a quote
Request a quote with the explorer figure, probe pattern, handle requirement, ordering reference and quantity you need. For other examination instruments, browse our diagnostic instruments.




