IS ULTRASONIC DENTAL SCALING A RISK-FREE DENTAL PROCEDURE?

Authors: Albertina STĂNILĂ, Mona IONAȘ, Adela DĂNCILĂ, Laura ȘTEF

Abstract:

Scaling seems to be a therapeutic work that does not involve risks and is easy to achieve. Nonetheless, scaling is not without secondary effects for both patient and doctor.The purpose of the present study is to synthesize current research regarding the possible risks associated to scaling with ultrasounds and identify the measures that can be taken to prevent them. An electronic search in the Science Direct database was realized using the search words: aerosols, cavitation, vibration, ultrasound, pacemaker, dental pulp, hearing acuity, and dentist. A total of 104 articles were found, of which 33 were selected, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The use of ultrasonic scaling devices presents a series of associated risks but, eventually, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. If used properly, with strict precautions, scaling with ultrasonic devices remains an easy, accessible and necessary job before performing any other dental treatment.

Keywords:
  • aerosols
  • cavitation
  • scaling
  • ultrasounds
  • vibrations