Periodontal Debridement with Sonic and Ultrasonic Scalers

Biofilm and calculus removal are very important components of periodontal therapy, and a variety of instruments may be used for debridement purposes. In recent years, the application range of sonic and ultra sonic scalers in such debridement procedures has been extended to the subgingival area as slim instrument tips allowing good access to the root surfaces have been developed. Treatment using oscillating scalers offers greater patient and operator comfort, and their treatment outcomes may be as successful as with hand instruments. However, a thorough knowledge of instrument function and profound clinical skills are necessary to allow safe, efficient application of these instruments.