Small piezo tips need to be inserted into the handpiece with a special tool and can easily be misplaced. Magnetostrictive advantages-All magnetostrictive inserts are universal regardless of the manufacturer, whereas piezo tips are not. The most effective portion of the tip is the last 2.4 mm and can be compared to a Gracey curette. The energy dispersion for the piezoelectric scaler differs from that of the magnetostrictive scaler, as only the lateral sides are effective. The lateral surfaces of the tip produce less energy than the point or the face and are most often used during power scaling. The back of the tip produces less energy than the point or face. The face of the tip produces the second greatest amount of vibrations. Therefore, the tip should never be applied directly on the tooth surface. This can cause damage and discomfort to the patient. ![]() The energy output at the tip produces the greatest amount of vibrations. The energy dispersion for the magnetostrictive power scaler makes all its sides effective. Only the lateral sides are effective in the removal of debris. For the piezoelectric scaler, strokes occur in a linear pattern via crystals activated by the ceramic handpiece. All surfaces of the tip are active in the removal of debris. In magnetostrictive scalers, energy is converted to vibrations from the elliptical stroke patterns of the unit's metal rod or stack of metal sheets. ![]() Magnetostrictive power scalers operate at an optimal frequency of 20 kHz to 40 kHz, whereas piezoelectric power scalers operate at a slightly higher optimal frequency of 29 kHz to 50 kHz. The differences lie in how the two devices function. They also both have a variety of inserts for various needs such as removing heavy deposits, root planing, etc. Both have been clearly proven to be effective for calculus and stain removal. Magnetostrictive (available from Dentsply and Parkell) and piezoelectric (available from EMS and Hu-Friedy) power scalers are the two types of ultrasonic devices seen in dental hygiene practice. When these bubbles collapse, they disrupt the cell walls of harmful bacteria. Additionally, cavitation occurs when bubbles form in the water stream. A significant benefit of ultrasonic scalers over sonic scalers is the water lavage that deplaques and washes away debris in the periodontal pocket. Ultrasonic scalers operate at a higher frequency of about 20 to 50 kilohertz (kHz) and may be either magnetostrictive or piezoelectric. They attach to the dental unit's high-speed handpiece tubing and are driven by compressed air. Sonic scalers (e.g., the Titan scaler) operate at a frequency of 3,000 to 8,000 hertz (i.e., cycles per second Hz). Powered scaling devices can be grouped into two categories, sonic and ultrasonic, based on the frequencies at which they operate. The use of power scalers benefits the gingiva and also produces less operator wrist fatigue than hand scaling. ![]() By Karissa Sebero, CRDH, CDA, and Rachel Kelly, CRDH, BS
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