A dental mirror is a light-weight, portable, easy-to-use instrument used for visualizing and exploring the oral cavity of a patient. It is useful to perform various procedures like checking teeth and removing decayed areas.
Disposable dental mirrors have become very popular in recent years. They are made from lightweight materials, are less expensive, and are easy to dispose after use. These mirrors have a good image perception and are also fog resistant.
There are many different types of disposable dental mirrors, including single-use and double-sided models. Generally, the single-use models have a patented reflective surface. This enables the dentist to see the entire mouth without any distortion. However, the second reflective surface on the back side of the mirror is rarely usable.
The handle of the single-use mirror is designed for a firm grip. It is manufactured from plastic or wood. Various non-toxic adhesives can be used to attach the handle to the mirror.
The blade of the handle is preferably made of wood. Wood is safe and has proven to be durable. In addition, the material is easy to clean.
During the sterilization process, germs may be trapped in the interface between the metal handle and the mirror. Therefore, it is necessary to rinse the mirror with plenty of water and dry it with a lint-free cloth. Alternatively, the mirror can be placed in an autoclave. Make sure that the autoclave is maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Alternatively, the mirror assembly can be attached to the handle with acrylic resin or ethyl vinyl acetate. Metallized plastic film can also be used as a reflective surface.