Robert A Foster, Jr
DMD/PC
Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
770-971-5119
1230 Johnson Ferry Place
Suite C-10
Marietta, GA 30068
How Ultrasonic Teeth Cleaning Works
Dental ultrasonic cleaners, similar to commercial and industrial ultrasonic cleaners, also rely on high frequency sound waves for its cleaning action. But that's where the similarity ends. An ultrasonic teeth cleaner is more like a dental scaler. It has a scaling tip that vibrates at high frequencies, generating ultrasonic waves.
During a dental cleaning operation, the scaling tip becomes hot due to intense sonic vibration. Therefore, it needs a continuous stream of water to keep it cool. The main role of the water stream is to serve as a cleaning solvent. The sound waves create microscopic vacuum bubbles as they pass through the liquid. These bubbles form and implode on the surface of the tooth, killing microbes present, and removing plaque and tartar in the process.
The Facts
The procedure does not use chemicals that may harm the teeth or the gum line. It only requires water. This would ensure that your oral cleaning experience would not be comparable to a trip to the car wash!
It is more effective than manual scraping. It can remove tartar buildup in hard-to-reach areas, while minimizing damage to the tooth enamel. On the other hand, manual scraping requires dexterity. Even a slight slip may result to serious oral problems in the future. With ultrasonic teeth cleaning, the hygienist can avoid such risk.
Manual scraping often uses pressure for cleaning, while the vibration produced by the scaling tip of an ultrasonic cleaner is barely perceptible. This makes ultrasonic cleaning suitable to those with sensitive teeth. A scaling tip can hurt. Microscopic bubbles wouldn't cause pain, not even a tickle.
The cleaning process is relatively faster than manual scraping – we can now spend less time on the dreaded dentist's chair! Scientific Gear