Variability of sonic scaling tip movement.
The sonic scaler operates at frequencies of 2 to 6 kHz and is powered by pressurised air from the dental unit. Variables likely to affect how these instruments perform include the air pressure input and load applied by the operator. Other variables include the brand of scaler used and the clinical technique of the operator. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in instrument performance within a dental teaching hospital. Light microscopy was used to measure the displacement amplitudes in air of 32 Sonic scalers which were in regular clinical use in three departments (Periodontal Unit, Restorative Unit and School of Hygiene). During operation, the air pressure was kept at a constant 2.8 kg cm-2 and measurements were made on each instrument with three scaling tips (universal, sickle and periodontal). The periodontal scaling tip exhibited the greatest vibration although this was not significant (p > 0.1). There was a significant difference in performance between the different clinical environments where the scalers were used (p < 0.01). 4 new sonic scaling instruments made by different manufacturers were selected for displacement amplitude measurements. One brand of sonic scaler demonstrated a significantly greater displacement amplitude in comparative measurements between instruments (p < 0.01). This study demonstrated differences in the oscillation of sonic scalers which should be recognised by clinicians when using these instruments, since they may influence clinical performance.
Shah
S
S
School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, UK.
Walmsley
A D
AD
Chapple
I L
IL
Lumley
P J
PJ
D002138:Calibration; D003777:Dental Prophylaxis / Q000295:instrumentation; D012534:Dental Scaling / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D003796:Dental Service, Hospital; D003814:Dentistry, Operative / Q000295:instrumentation; D004867:Equipment Design; D006784:Hospitals, Teaching; D008422:Materials Testing; D009991:Oscillometry / Q000295:instrumentation; D010517:Periodontics / Q000295:instrumentation; D011312:Pressure; D013499:Surface Properties; D014464:Ultrasonic Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D014732:Vibration