Questions & Answers

What makes the new curettes different from a standard stainless or carbon curette?
The XP curettes are treated with a patented process that hardens
the stainless steel, and then encapsulates the steel with a diamond like
layer. This makes an edge that will last months without sharpening.
The stroke test show that XP technology handles 10 times the strokes
with only 1/10th the wear.

Why are XP curettes thinner than standard curettes?
Many dentist and hygienist have asked for thinner instruments for
better subgingival care. The new XP technology already ensures a super sharp edge with a longer life. There is no need to make the blade thicker
to compensate for removal of material due to sharpening.

How do we sterilize and care for the new curettes?
The XP curettes can be cleaned and sterilized like any
stainless steel curette.

Do we need to take special care while using the XP curettes to get the maximum life?
Yes, the XP curettes are designed for fine subgingival scaling and root planing. You should avoid using them to trim margins and remove overhangs.
Due to the new XP technology we have eliminated the need to apply excess amounts of pressure. You will be able to use less force, and a lighter grasp.

Should we take special care during cleaning
and sterilization?
American Eagle suggests the use of sterilization cassettes and American Eagle Ultrasonic Cleaner Concentrate. This will protect your instruments against unnecessary damage caused by instrument blades coming into contact with each other during ultrasonic cleaning.

The curettes seem sharper than
normal curettes, why?
They are sharper! The XP curettes have a very fine and sharp smooth edge that is designed to more efficiently root plane. This is why one must take care not to abuse the edge on margins, overhangs, or by "breaking away" difficult calculus.

Do I need to change the way I scale and root plane?
No, you will find that the XP instrument only requires that you lightly "plane". You will be able to use less force, and a lighter grip.

Will I really have better tactile sense with
a XP curette?
Yes, because the blade is so sharp and lasts so long you will find that you can hold the instrument with a lighter grasp while you scale and root plane.

Can I sharpen the XP curette?
Due to a thinner blade design we do not recommend that you sharpen your XP curette. When it becomes dull simply replace it with a new one.

How will I save money by using the XP curettes?
First, you will find that you will save money by not having to sharpen your curettes at all. Once the factory edge is worn simply purchase a new curette. The time and effort you will spend sharpening can be used to treat more patients, or do other professional work. Second, the XP curettes should last longer than traditional curettes depending on how you use and care for them.

Can the XP curette help prolong my career by minimizing the chances of me getting Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome?
The industry has started to recognize that a larger diameter, lighter weighthandle has many advantages. The American Eagle XP curette allows for a larger handle, a lighter grip, and less pressure during procedures. These combined benefits should help reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries.