Gracey curettes are the most widely used area-specific instruments in periodontal care. Each number is designed for particular teeth and surfaces, which makes them highly effective but also easy to mix up. This Gracey curette chart explains what each number means, which area it is built for, and how to choose and use them with confidence.
What Is a Gracey Curette?
A Gracey curette is an area-specific curette used for subgingival scaling and root planing. Unlike a universal curette, which has two cutting edges and can be used on most surfaces, a Gracey has one cutting edge and an offset blade. This design lets it adapt closely to the specific tooth surfaces it was made for, improving access and calculus removal while reducing tissue trauma.
Gracey curettes are double-ended. The two working ends are mirror images, so a single instrument covers both sides of a given surface type. That is why the numbers come in pairs, such as 11/12.
Gracey Curette Chart: Numbers and Areas
| Gracey number | Area of use | Surfaces |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 | Anterior teeth | All surfaces |
| 3/4 | Anterior teeth | All surfaces |
| 5/6 | Anterior teeth and premolars | All surfaces |
| 7/8 | Posterior teeth | Facial and lingual |
| 9/10 | Posterior teeth | Facial and lingual |
| 11/12 | Posterior teeth | Mesial |
| 13/14 | Posterior teeth | Distal |
| 15/16 | Posterior teeth (modified shank) | Mesial |
| 17/18 | Posterior teeth (modified shank) | Distal |
The most commonly used set
Many clinicians work with a core set of four: 5/6 for anterior teeth and premolars, 7/8 for the facial and lingual surfaces of posterior teeth, 11/12 for posterior mesial surfaces, and 13/14 for posterior distal surfaces. Additional numbers are added depending on the case and personal preference.
Blade Design and How It Works
- One cutting edge: Only the lower edge of the blade cuts. The upper edge is rounded off and not used for scaling.
- Offset blade angle: The face of the blade sits at roughly 60 to 70 degrees to the lower shank, rather than 90 degrees as on a universal curette. When the lower shank is held parallel to the tooth surface, the cutting edge is correctly positioned.
- Curved blade: The blade curves in two directions, which lets it follow the contour of the root.
- Shank design: Numbers 1–6 have a relatively simple shank for anterior access. Numbers 7–10 have a single bend for posterior facial and lingual surfaces. Numbers 11–14 have a more complex, double-bend shank to reach the mesial and distal surfaces of back teeth.
Because only one edge is meant to cut, correct selection of the right-hand and left-hand end for each surface is essential. Checking that the lower shank is parallel to the tooth surface confirms the correct working end is in place.
Common Uses of Gracey Curettes
- Subgingival scaling: removing calculus and deposits within the periodontal pocket.
- Root planing: smoothing the root surface to discourage plaque and calculus build-up.
- Debridement of deep pockets: especially with modified versions designed for extended reach.
- Fine finishing: refining the root surface after ultrasonic or scaler work. For hard supragingival deposits, a dental scaler is usually the first choice.
Modified Gracey Curettes
Several variations extend the usefulness of the standard Gracey design:
| Type | Key feature | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| After Five | Terminal shank about 3 mm longer, thinner blade | Deeper pockets (5 mm or more) |
| Mini Five | Extended shank with a blade half the standard length | Narrow, tight pockets and deep, restricted access |
| Rigid Gracey | Stiffer, heavier shank and blade | Heavier calculus |
| 15/16 and 17/18 | Modified shank for mesial (15/16) and distal (17/18) posterior surfaces | Improved access in posterior areas |
How to Choose Quality Gracey Curettes
Steel quality and hardness
High-grade stainless steel holds an edge longer and withstands repeated autoclaving. A blade that is too soft dulls quickly, and one that is too brittle can chip.
Accurate blade geometry
The offset angle, curvature and cutting edge should be consistent from one instrument to the next. Poorly made blades adapt badly and reduce the benefit of the area-specific design.
Handle comfort
Lightweight or hollow handles with a textured surface improve tactile sensitivity and reduce fatigue over a full day of scaling.
Set options
Decide whether you need a basic set (5/6, 7/8, 11/12, 13/14) or a full set from 1/2 to 17/18. Explore our range of Gracey curettes to build your tray.
Sharpening and Caring for Gracey Curettes
- Sharpen regularly. A dull curette burnishes calculus and forces extra pressure.
- Preserve the original blade shape and angle when sharpening, and only sharpen the cutting edge.
- Clean right after use to remove debris from the blade and shank.
- Dry and package instruments, then autoclave according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Replace curettes when repeated sharpening has thinned or shortened the blade too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the numbers on Gracey curettes mean?
They identify the area each curette is designed for. Each instrument is double-ended, so a pair such as 11/12 refers to two mirror-image working ends made for the mesial surfaces of posterior teeth.
Which Gracey curette is used for the distal surfaces of posterior teeth?
The 13/14 is the standard choice. The 17/18 is a variation with a modified shank for the same area.
How many cutting edges does a Gracey curette have?
One per working end, the lower edge of the blade. The blade is offset at about 60 to 70 degrees to the lower shank.
What is the difference between a Gracey curette and a universal curette?
A universal curette has two cutting edges and a 90-degree blade face, so it can be used on most surfaces. A Gracey is area-specific, with one cutting edge and an offset blade for closer adaptation.
What are After Five and Mini Five curettes?
They are modified Gracey curettes. The After Five has a longer shank and thinner blade for deeper pockets, while the Mini Five has the extended shank with a blade half the length for tight, narrow pockets.
Final Thoughts
Once you know the chart, Gracey curettes become much easier to use: low numbers for the front, 7/8 and 9/10 for the cheek and tongue sides, 11/12 for mesial and 13/14 for distal. Pair the right number with correct blade angulation, keep your instruments sharp, and invest in well-made steel for consistent results.
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