If you haven't visited a dentist recently for a cleaning, you might be surprised the next time you go when the hygienist starts cleaning your teeth with an ultrasonic scaler instead of a handheld scaler. A handheld scaler is a pointed tool dentists use to scrape plaque off gum lines, but many dentists have replaced these tools with ultrasonic ones. Here are several things you should know about an ultrasonic scaler:

How It Works

The purpose of scaling your teeth is to scrape off the plaque that develops around the gum lines and on the teeth. This can be a painful experience for some people, and this is one of the reasons some dentists now use ultrasonic scalers.

An ultrasonic scaler works with energy, vibration, and shock waves. When the hygienist uses the device on your teeth, you will feel the vibration, but it will feel very different than the tool you might be used to. As the hygienist uses the ultrasonic scaler, he or she will rinse your mouth with water. The scaler loosens the plaque and the water washes it away.

The Benefits 

Handheld scalers are effective for this purpose, but ultrasonic scalers tend to be even more effective. The device creates a huge amount of force with the energy and vibration, and it is extremely effective for removing debris from teeth. These devices are also more effective for cleaning the areas inside the gum lines. These areas are called pockets, and they tend to accumulate bacteria and plaque in them. If these areas are not cleaned out, a person can develop gum disease.

A hygienist can clean your teeth faster with an ultrasonic scaler, which is a benefit for you. In addition, it may be less painful for you, and it might offer a more thorough cleaning.

One other good thing to know about ultrasonic scalers is that they are less invasive. If you ever feel pain when a hygienist is scraping a handheld scaler on your gum line, you should understand that this will not happen with an ultrasonic scaler. A handheld scaler can actually cut the gums and cause them to bleed, simply because it is hard to scrape the gum lines without harming the gums at least a little bit. Because of this, there is less risk of damaging the gums if an ultrasonic scaler is used.

If you need to get your teeth cleaned and haven't been to a dentist in a while, your dental clinic might now offer cleanings with an ultrasonic scaler. To set up an appointment, contact a clinic today. You can also check out a website like http://www.vanyodentistry.com for more information and assistance. 

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