Buck Periodontal Knife 5/6

The Buck Periodontal Knife 5/6 is a double-ended soft tissue instrument constructed from surgical-grade 440A stainless steel, featuring long, thin spear-like blades on each working end with sharp cutting edges running along both sides of the blade tip. Each end is angulated in an opposing direction from the handle axis, allowing the surgeon to approach interproximal tissue from either the mesial or distal aspect without repositioning. The blade profile is narrower and more elongated than the 3/4 Buck figures, making it specifically suited for reaching deeper into interproximal embrasure spaces. As seen in the instrument image, the handle carries a green-toned, ringed knurled barrel providing a firm non-slip grip during wet operative conditions.

The 5/6 Buck Periodontal Knife differs from the 3/4 Buck by its longer, spear-pointed blade geometry — where the tip tapers to a fine point rather than carrying a flat cutting face. This profile allows the blade to pierce and slide interdentally after the primary incision without resistance from adjacent papillary tissue. The stainless-steel body is fully autoclavable and maintains corrosion resistance and blade sharpness across repeated sterilization cycles.

Periodontists use the Buck Periodontal Knife 5/6 during gingivectomy and gingivoplasty procedures to place interdental incisions following the initial external bevel cut. After the primary Kirkland knife incision removes the facial and lingual gingival walls, the surgeon inserts the spear-tipped end interdentally to sever the remaining papillary tissue tags connecting adjacent teeth, completing the gingival excision without tearing the tissue margin.

The Buck Gingival Knife series remains a standard fixture in soft tissue resection trays globally. Leader Surgical delivers this instrument with consistent blade geometry, verified stainless steel composition, and a sterilization-safe surface finish for dependable clinical performance.

What is the primary use of a 5/6 Buck Knife?
It is used for making clean incisions and reshaping soft gum tissue (gingivoplasty) or removing diseased tissue (gingivectomy). Its long, thin, spear-pointed blades are specifically designed to access narrow spaces between teeth (interproximal areas).