When you visit your dentist for your biannual dental cleanings, he or she will scale your teeth. This is the part that makes many people uncomfortable, mostly because of the sound of the scraping of the scaling instrument against your teeth. It is the step during the cleaning procedure that comes before polishing. In the past, dentists used a handheld scraping instrument to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Today, dentists are using ultrasonic scaling devices instead. Ultrasonic vs. manual scaling: which would you prefer?
Manual Scaling
Manual scalers are designed to scrape accumulated plaque and tartar off of your teeth. Because it is done manually it cannot be performed as quickly as an ultrasonic scaler. Manual scalers are also not as effective when cleaning away built-up plaque and tartar. In some cases, however, some dentists believe, that manual scalers may be better for cleaning porcelain and composite restorations as well as demineralized areas of teeth. Demineralized enamel is especially prone to cavities.
Ultrasonic Scaling
Ultrasonic scalers work via vibration. The speed of the vibrations knock the plaque and tartar off your teeth and do so in a fast and effective manner. There is no scraping metal against your teeth, and the tips are tiny enough to easily access areas where manual tools may have difficulty. The scaler also sprays cool water that helps dislodge plaque and tartar. However, because ultrasonic scalers are electronic, they could possibly interfere with pacemakers.
Which Would You Prefer, An Ultrasonic Scaling, Or A Manual Scaling?
There are many benefits associated with ultrasonic scaling. So, to schedule your next dental cleaning appointment, call Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury in Shrewsbury, MA, today at (508) 842-8838. We proudly serve patients from Worcester, North and South Grafton, Westborough, Southborough, Northborough, Boylston, Hopkinton, Millbury, and all surrounding communities.
