Mechanized scaling with ultrasonics: Perils and proactive measures

Abstract

Mechanized scaling for plaque removal is a routine procedure in the practice of periodontics. Though it appears innocuous by itself, there are retinues of hazards associated with it on various organ systems in the body. Some of these unwanted effects and measures to avoid or ameliorate the same are elaborated here. Exposure to ultrasonic scaling is inevitable before any other treatment procedure. Aerosol contamination, vibrational hazards, thermal effects on the dental pulp, altered vascular dynamics, disruption in electromagnetic device, diminished hearing and dental unit waterline contamination are some of the probable off-shoots a patient has to bear. Uses of barrier devices, proper attention to usage of equipment, protection for ear and water treatment are few of solutions for the same. Though documented evidence for the existence of all effects is lacking, it is never the less significant for the overall safety of the patient. A conscientious clinician should therefore inculcate the available steps to overcome the hazards of ultrasonic scaling.

Efficacy versus health risks: An in vitro evaluation of power-driven scalers

“…[ 27 45 46 47 ] However, a conscientious clinician should therefore inculcate all available steps to overcome the hazards of the powered device scaling. [ 3 ] Besides, the root surface being treated seems to be relevant for the health-risk of the operator. In this current investigation, subgingival scaling showed a lower risk of spatter production compared to supragingival scaling (HRI: 0.0934 vs. 0.1174) as well as molars compared to incisors (HRI: 0.0162 vs. 0.0243).…”

“…[ 2 ] Although, they are indispensable for periodontal treatment, their use is not without perils. [ 3 ] They are the major source of spatter and aerosol contamination in dental practices. [ 4 5 6 7 8 ] This should be kept in mind regarding the reported resurgence of bacterial diseases such as tuberculosis[ 9 ] and the presence of other pathogenic organisms with the potential for airborne transmission.…”

Using Computational Fluid Dynamics to Evaluate the Role of Air Purification in Reducing Fallow Time in Dentistry

“…We then decided to recreate an ultrasonic scaling appointment without the use of HVE as a worst-case scenario [30] hence our choice of a flow rate of 17ml min -1 as this is the typical flow rate of an ultrasonic scaler. The duration of this flow was 10 minutes, and the total particle number released was 4.5 million.…”

Using Computational Fluid Dynamics to Evaluate the Role of Air Purification in Reducing Fallow Time in Dentistry 

“…We then decided to recreate an ultrasonic scaling appointment without the use of HVE as a worst-case scenario [31], ergo our choice of a flow rate of 17ml min -1 , as this is the typical flow rate of an ultrasonic scaler, the duration of this flow was the 10 minutes mentioned above, total particle number released was 4.5 million.…”