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Nov 11, 2019|Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic Scalers in the Dental Office

Modern Dentistry in Ashburn, Virginia

A lot of our patients have memories of the hand scalers that were traditionally used during dental cleanings and now have questions about the ultrasonic scalers we use in our practice. In our Ashburn dental office, we use state-of-the-art technology and ultrasonic scalers have been shown to be the best option for cleaning teeth.
The main action of power scalers is mechanical; the high vibrational energy crushes and removes calculus. Other actions include: creating shockwaves that disrupt bacterial cells, or using turbulence to disrupt biofilms, and irrigation — the therapeutic washing and flushing of the periodontal pocket and root surface with cooling water.

Goby electronic brush

Research Shows Power Scaling Instruments Have Advantages:

  • They are as effective as manual instruments for calculus removal in shallow gum pockets and significantly more effective in pockets greater than 4mm.
  • They are very effective in disrupting biofilm from root surfaces and from within periodontal pockets making them especially helpful when patients require frequent maintenance (cleanings).
  • Specially designed tips can penetrate deeper into periodontal pockets than manual instruments and are more effective at cleaning difficult nooks and crannies like furcations, (areas where roots join each other in multi-rooted teeth).
  • When used correctly they are kinder to tooth structure, which is especially important with repeated cleanings (when used correctly).
  • Coolant sprays provide irrigation (flushing of the area), which improves healing by removing bacteria and their bi-products as well as the hygienist’s ability to see when scaling.
  • They require less time than manual instruments for the same job.
  • Their smaller tips cause less tissue distention and require very little pressure — thus making it more comfortable for you, the patient!

Cautions Regarding Power Scalers

  • Aerosol production (the formation of contaminated “mist”) requires protective equipment; not a problem for experienced dental professionals.
  • Power scalers may affect certain cardiac (heart) pacemakers! Although most modern pacemakers are shielded, tell your dentist and/or hygienist if you have one.
  • Ultrasonic power scalers are not recommended for individuals with hypersensitive teeth, which may include primary teeth or newly erupted teeth. Please tell your dentist or hygienist if your teeth are sensitive to temperature change.
  • Ultrasonic scalers are also not recommended for areas of demineralization (early mineral loss leading to decay), porcelain or composite restorations and titanium implants — unless specially designed tips are used which won’t scratch them.

Our Ashburn dental office strives to provide the best experience via modern dental technology.  Power ultrasonic scalers provide you the best dental cleaning possible and, along with regular visits to your Ashburn dentist, you’ll maintain your best smile possible!

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