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. 

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.

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.

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.