During ultrasonic scaling procedures, water flows through the scaler handpiece and over the scaler tip to the site of instrumentation. The primary reason for using water during ultrasonic scaling procedures is to prevent excessive heating occurring at the point where the scaler tip contacts the tooth surface through friction.
Heat generated during ultrasonic scaler instrumentation has been evaluated, in-vitro, using infrared thermography - more commonly known as thermal imaging (Lea et al 2004). The thermal imaging system used in this study was the Agema 900 (EPSRC Engineering Instrument Pool).
Magnetostrictive and piezoelectric ultrasonic scaling instruments were contacted against tooth surfaces under a variety of contact loads, generator power settings and water flow rates. Images which reveal the magnitudes and positions of temperature rises have been compiled into the animation below.
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The investigation highlighted the importance of setting an appropriate water flow rate for regulating temperature during instrumentation. It also demonstrated the effect tip/tooth contact load can have on the temperature rise experienced.
More detailed information regarding this investigation may be found in the following publication:
The School of Dentistry
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