What are the relative merits of standard ultrasonic scalers versus piezo-electric scalers?

Answered by: Kathy L. O’Keefe, D.D.S., M.S.

In general, the piezoelectric scalers offer thinner tips and might lessen the need for anesthesia. Also, manufacturers state that less water is necessary for their use because they do not produce quite as much heat. They remove calculus in layers versus in large chunks, as the ultrasonic scalers do. Piezo-electric scalers are touted as being more comfortable to the patient and less traumatic to the tooth and tissue than the ultrasonic scalers. However, in cases where there is significant tartar build-up, the ultrasonic scalers break away the large pieces of calculus faster and more efficiently than the piezo does. I think there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of scalers.

The Cavitron Plus and Cavitron Jet Plus (DENTSPLY Professional) have been evaluated by THE DENTAL ADVISOR and their reviews are posted on the web site.