Parkell Turbo 25k/30k
scaler unit |
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Cavitron™ - Ultrasonic scaler capable
of 30,000 vibrations/sec |
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Piezoelectric scaler |
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Ultrasonic scalers are used to remove calculus rapidly from
the tooth surface. The scaling tip vibrates in the ultrasonic
range of 20-45 kHz (i.e. 20,000 to 45,000 times per second),
with an optimum frequency between 18 kHz and 32kHz.
Most of the scaling power is available at the tip, which
is cooled with a jet of water.
There are three basic types - magnetostrictive, piezo-electric
and Odontoson™.
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Odontoson™
Ultrasonic scaler capable of 42 KHz. Has
choice of 11 tips |
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How It Works
The scaling tip vibrates and follows a pattern depending on power
rating and type - elliptical, curved linear or figure of 8. The
water is energised as it passes over the tip to provide cavitation,
which results in a scouring action. Because of the heat generated
at the tip, it is essential to keep the tip moving over the teeth.
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Slimline scaler in use - note water delivery
system |
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A good guide is that one should not spend more
than 10 seconds on any individual tooth and
never to press harder than one ounce
of pressure. Pressing hard stops the tip from
vibrating and reduces the effectiveness of the
tip to that of a hand scaler. It also concentrates
heat in one area with possibly lethal consequences
for the pulp. Best practice involves selecting
a group of three of four teeth and scaling them
in sequence to prevent over-heating any one
tooth.
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3 cavi-med™
type inserts allowing both sub gingival
scaling with irrigation of medicamen |
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TFI insert and supragingival
beavertail tip |
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FSI SLI-10 inserts
- straight/left/right |
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Different shapes are available for scaling tips and some units
offer interchangeable inserts, which allow various functions to
be performed, such as subgingival scaling, root planing and periodontal
pocket management.
The newer inserts, with thinner, longer tips, carry their own water
supply with them (either through the tip itself or via an external
"trombone") and can, therefore, be used for subgingival
pockets, disrupting and removing subgingival plaque and ultrasonically
irrigating the area. The thinner the tip the finer the action.
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FSI slimline
in use |
Advantages
- Fast, effective scaling if used properly - light touch &
short time on tooth.
- Subgingival work is possible with the correct type of insert
(e.g. Focus Spray Insert (FSI), Slimline or Through Flow Insert
(TFI)).
Disadvantages
- Iatrogenic heat damage to the tooth is possible if not used
carefully.
- Standard beavertail shape tips cannot be used subgingivally.
For subgingival use, FSI, TFI or Slimline inserts are required.
- Handpieces can heat up considerably during long scaling procedures,
if water pressure is not consistent. Garden water bottle reservoirs
generally fail to provide a consistent and useful level of water
pressure. If an air compressor is available, plumbing the unit
in provides a better result.
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