Gracey curettes are area-specific periodontal instruments designed for root debridement below the gumline. Each number in the set is shaped to reach particular teeth and surfaces. Understanding the system makes it easier to build cassettes and order the right Gracey curettes.
In short
Gracey curettes have one cutting edge on an offset blade. Lower numbers are for anterior teeth, higher numbers for posterior teeth. Extended (After Five) and Mini Five versions help in deep or narrow pockets.
How Gracey curettes differ from universal curettes#
A universal curette has two cutting edges and a blade at 90 degrees to the lower shank. A Gracey curette has a single cutting edge on an offset blade, angled at about 70 degrees to the lower shank, and a shank shaped for specific areas. This design gives good adaptation to root surfaces.
The Gracey numbers#
| Gracey | Designed for |
|---|---|
| 1/2, 3/4 | Anterior teeth |
| 5/6 | Anterior teeth and premolars |
| 7/8, 9/10 | Posterior teeth, facial and lingual surfaces |
| 11/12 | Posterior teeth, mesial surfaces |
| 13/14 | Posterior teeth, distal surfaces |
| 15/16, 17/18 | Modified posterior designs for mesial and distal surfaces |
Many clinicians use a reduced set, for example 1/2 or 5/6, 7/8, 11/12 and 13/14, which covers most of the mouth.
Variations#
- After Five: the terminal shank is about 3 mm longer and the blade is thinner, for pockets deeper than 5 mm.
- Mini Five: extended shank with a blade half the usual length, for narrow, deep pockets and furcations.
- Rigid shanks for heavier calculus; finishing (flexible) shanks for light deposits and better tactile feel.
Sharpening Gracey curettes#
Sharpening checklist
- Sharpen only the single cutting edge (the lower edge of the offset blade).
- Keep the original face-to-lateral surface angle.
- Test sharpness on a plastic test stick.
- Replace curettes when the blade becomes thin or narrow.
Frequently asked questions#
How do I find the cutting edge of a Gracey curette?#
Hold the instrument with the terminal shank vertical and the face towards you; the cutting edge is the lower edge of the blade, which tilts down.
Do I need the full Gracey set?#
Not always. Many clinicians work with four or five key numbers and add others as needed.
What does After Five mean?#
It refers to the longer terminal shank, designed for pockets deeper than 5 mm.
Order Gracey curettes from Gami Surgical#
Gami Surgical manufactures Gracey curettes and other periodontal instruments in Sialkot, Pakistan, and delivers worldwide. Send us the numbers, variations and quantities for a quote.
