What is an Ultrasonic Scaler and it’s Benefits

Most individuals require hygiene treatments every six months, the frequency of these visits is determined by your specific dental health needs. Traditionally, dental hygienists or dentists manually clean teeth using specialized instruments for hand-scaling or gentle scraping. However, at Sloan Creek Dental, we provide our patients with the highest level of dental care, utilizing advanced technologies. Therefore, we prefer to incorporate an ultrasonic scaler, specifically the Cavitron ultrasonic scaler, alongside hand instruments whenever necessary to ensure optimal cleaning results.

In this article, we’ll discuss what ultrasonic scaling is, why it’s used in routine cleaning, deep cleaning, its benefits, who can benefit from it, and how it compares to hand scaling. Get ready to learn why ultrasonic scaling may be the best option for you!

Key Takeaways

  • Ultrasonic scaling uses high-frequency vibrations to clean plaque and tartar from teeth.
  • It is a fast and comfortable method that is gentle on teeth and roots.
  • Ultrasonic scalers are effective at removing bacteria biofilms and preventing gum disease.

What Is An Dental Ultrasonic Scaler?

Ultrasonic scaling is a great option that can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. This dental instrument uses soundwaves to remove dental plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth, making it an effective way to prevent gum disease. If you have periodontal pockets, the scaler is designed to reach deep within the pockets while minimizing tissue distention.

Why is a Cavitron Ultrasonic Scaler Used? 

Dentists use a Cavitron ultrasonic scaler as a tool for dental cleanings and periodontal therapy. The Cavitron scaler is an advanced dental instrument that utilizes ultrasonic vibrations to remove plaque, tartar, and other deposits from teeth and gums. Dental professionals use this technology because it’s gentle enough not to damage your teeth or roots while leaving tooth surfaces smooth and plaque-resistant. This device is also great for those with signs of periodontal disease.

How Does a Cavitron Work?

An ultrasonic dental scaler is a valuable tool that harnesses the power of ultrasonic vibrations to aid in removing plaque and tartar from teeth. These gentle vibrations effectively loosen the deposits, making them easier to remove from the tooth surface. In addition to the vibrations, it uses water that is emitted at the top to help cool the tip and flush away debris, while its bubbles help rupture and remove bacteria. Not only is the device efficient in tackling plaque and tartar, but it is also effective at removing stains from teeth. The ultrasonic scaler’s ability to address both deposits and stains contributes to a comprehensive cleaning process, promoting optimal oral health and a brighter smile.

Benefits of Cavitron Ultrasonic Scaling

There are several benefits when it comes to using this during your dental cleaning.

  • The ultrasonic scaler can be used to reach areas that are unreachable using hand tools. Specifically, the Cavitron can reach areas between teeth and gums at 4mm and greater.
  • The ultrasonic scaler uses specially designed tips that can get into corners and crevices for a deep cleaning of areas that are often missed.
  • One of the notable features of Cavitron systems is their use of non-sharp edges, which results in a reduction or elimination of the scraping sound commonly associated with traditional hand dental instruments. This can contribute to a more comfortable and pleasant experience for most patients during the scaling process.
  • Using the ultrasonic scaler is faster than doing it by hand, which saves time for both the hygienist and the patient. Since the scaling device is ergonomically sound and uses vibration to remove plaque and tartar, there’s no need to exert pressure on the teeth.

Ultrasonic scaling compared to hand scaling

Recent research has shown that ultrasonic scaling instruments are just as effective as manual scalers in removing tartar from tooth surfaces, even in shallow gum pockets. However, the real advantage of ultrasonic instruments becomes clear when it comes to clearing deposits from deeper pockets. This specialized technology is excellent at reaching and effectively treating those hard-to-reach areas, improving the overall cleaning process. Seniors with weakened teeth will appreciate the gentler treatment of ultrasonic scalers over manual ones.

FAQ

The ultrasonic scaler is used to eliminate plaque and calculus that can cause gum diseases. Its high-frequency vibrations reach deeper areas of the gum line that manual hand scalers may miss. This results in a more comprehensive cleaning, improving overall gum health.

Ultrasonic scalers work by using sound waves that vibrate at a frequency that is typically in the ultrasonic range of 20-45 kHz. Traditional dental products like manual hand scalers rely on physical force and might not reach all areas of the gum line. Ultrasonic scalers allow for a more comprehensive and time-efficient cleaning.

The jet of water in an ultrasonic scaler, also known as lavage, serves to flush out debris from the mouth during the cleaning process. It also cools down the scaling tip, which vibrates at high frequencies, preventing heat damage to the teeth.

After your teeth cleaning with an ultrasonic scaler at Sloan Creek Dental, you may feel a slight sense of discomfort or sensitivity, especially if you had a significant amount of plaque or calculus. However, this temporary and your teeth will feel noticeably cleaner and smoother after the procedure. Here are some tips to care for your teeth after your deep cleaning.

If you notice any of the early warning signs of gum disease, such as the following, it’s time to consider a visit to your general dentist.

  • Pain
  • Bleeding gums or pus in the gums
  • Bad breath
  • Receding Gums
  • Swelling in the gums
  • Receding gums
  • Loose Teeth

Your Fairview Dentist is Here For You

As your Fairview dentist, we are here to help. If you’re in the Fairview Allen, TX area and suffering from gum disease, or wondering what the benefits of deep cleaning teeth are, then contact Sloan Creek Dental in Fairview, TX. You can reach us at our Fairview, TX dental office to schedule an in-person consultation at 972-468-1440.