You know the drill (no pun intended.) When you go to the dentist for your bi-annual cleaning, you sit in the chair while the hygienist chips and flosses away at the plaque and tarter you've built up on your teeth. Well, there's a new wave in your future! Ultrasonic scaling. Sounds very 2000, doesn't it? This scaling device uses high frequency sound waves in the form of rapid vibrations to remove plaque and calculus from your teeth. The hygienist or dentist moves the tip of the hand-held device several times across the surface of each tooth. You may hear a shrill noise from the air turbine that operates it, but you don't feel the heat that's generated, because a fine spray of water cools the tip and washes away the debris. The hygienist or dentist may have to manually remove some of the plaque in the areas that could not be reached with the ultrasonic device.

Ultrasonic scaling, just like everything, has its good sides and bad sides. It is usually faster than conventional cleanings and is considered by most to be less painful, especially on the gums. The fine mist of water sprayed can reduce the visibility of the dentist or hygienist, however, and you can all get wet very quickly! Eye and clothing protectors are certainly recommended, and a saliva ejector ("spit tube") is very necessary.

Ultrasonic scaling is not for everyone. Children are not good candidates, nor are people with increased susceptibility to infection. People with pacemakers or who have tooth surface that is worn away should not have this procedure. And it is not recommended for people who don't have much accumulation of calculus. But ask your dentist or orthodontist if he or she offers ultrasonic scaling-- it just might be a great idea for you!

Disclaimer:

The information in this newsletter is only for the purpose of providing you with information regarding your orthodontic care and treatment. It is not intended to offer any medical or dental advice. Please contact your own dentist or orthodontist for treatment, appliances, or instructions that are right for you.