Three-dimensional analyses of ultrasonic scaler oscillations.
BACKGROUND
It is stated that the oscillation patterns of dental ultrasonic scalers are dependent upon whether the instrument is of a magnetostrictive or piezoelectric design. These patterns are then linked to differences in root surface debridement in vitro.


METHODS
Piezoelectric (A, P) and magnetostrictive (Slimline, TFI-3) ultrasonic scalers (three of each) were evaluated, loaded (100 g/200 g) and unloaded with a 3D laser vibrometer. Loads were applied to the probe tips via teeth mounted in a load-measuring device.


RESULTS
Elliptical motion was demonstrated for all probes under loaded and unloaded conditions. Loading flattened the elliptical motion along the length of the probe. Unloaded, Slimline tip 1 was significantly different to tips 2 and 3 (p<0.0001). There were no differences between the A-tips (p>0.207). All TFI-3 tips were different to each other (p<0.0001). P-tips 1 and 2 were different to each other (p=0.046). Loaded, Slimline tips were different to each other (p<0.001). There were no differences between the P probes (p>0.867). Generator power increased all Slimline and P tip vibrations (p<0.0001).


CONCLUSIONS
Probe oscillation patterns are independent of ultrasound production mechanism and are dependent upon probe shape and generator power. Loaded probes oscillated with an elliptical pattern.
Lea
Simon C
SC
School of Dentistry, The University of Birmingham, St. Chad's Queensway, Birmingham, UK. s.lea@bham.ac.uk
Felver
Bernhard
B
Landini
Gabriel
G
Walmsley
A Damien
AD
D003762:Dental Instruments; D012534:Dental Scaling / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006696:Holography / Q000295:instrumentation; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D009991:Oscillometry / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014464:Ultrasonic Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014732:Vibration / Q000627:therapeutic use