Regular care, carried out in accordance with the basic principles of maintaining oral hygiene, reduces the likelihood of developing various kinds of pathologies. Among the various methods of prevention used in dentistry, a special place is occupied by the method of professional removal of plaque, tartar, and deposits implemented using special equipment. Pathogenic trace elements that accumulate in hard-to-reach areas provoke the development of caries and inflammatory processes that damage the structure of enamel and gum tissues. What is hardware ultrasonic teeth cleaning, how does this procedure work, what are the pros and cons, and how often should the treatment be done? The answers to all your questions are in our review.
General view
Daily ingestion of food that differs in texture and composition leads to the formation of soft plaque that forms on the surface of the enamel coating. To eliminate this kind of deposit, it is enough to use a regular brush, paste, or floss – the more regular hygiene care, the better the condition of the dentition. However, the specificity of the anatomical structure of the maxillary region determines the fact that not all areas are available for self-treatment. Over time, the accumulated trace elements and particles harden, acquiring a stony structure, which is no longer possible to eliminate on your own.
The most problematic, in terms of removal, are deposits containing tobacco smoke components and coloring pigments characteristic of tea, coffee, and other drinks and products. The use of chemical compounds with aggressive elements, as well as pastes saturated with abrasive particles, increases the risk of damage to the enamel and adjacent tissues. Such procedures pose the greatest danger in case of hypersensitivity – in this case, it is recommended to opt for an alternative variant of medical intervention.
Practice shows that today not all patients know how teeth cleaning with ultrasound at the dentist, what it is, what sensations, contraindications, pros and cons, and how often treatment can be done in order to eliminate possible negative consequences. The technology on which the considered method is based involves the use of a special device – a scaler that generates ultrasonic waves. Characteristics of length and frequency are determined on the basis of individual indications, formed according to the results of a preliminary diagnosis of the state of the enamel, due to which the procedure is as gentle as possible and does not damage the elements of the series.
Wave passage of ultrasound layers of plaque and stony deposits leads to the gradual destruction of their structure and separation from the surface of the protective coating. Directed action ensures the ease of subsequent removal of pathogenic microelements, including from hard-to-reach areas, interdental areas, fissures, and gum pockets. High-quality processing guarantees the restoration of the natural state and reduces the likelihood of pathologies.
How ultrasonic teeth cleaning is done
The development of technology has significantly contributed to the expansion of the range of options that are available to dentists today. Even at the beginning of the century, curettage was a standard practice for removing hard plaque – a technique involving the use of sharply sharpened instruments, associated not only with painful sensations. Associated damage to the enamel and gums was considered normal since the volume of tissues removed during the application of the curette varied in the range from 5 to 25 microns. As a result, the more often the patient went to the doctor for the procedure, the thinner the enamel coating became, which led to an increase in sensitivity to temperature changes and mechanical stress.
How is ultrasonic teeth cleaning carried out correctly and is this technique harmful? Formally, the technique is also associated with partial removal of the outer tissue coating, as in the case of classical curettage. However, gentle ultrasonic treatment reduces the thickness of the removed layer to 0.1 µm and does not provide for direct physical contact with adjacent areas. The scaler, the equipment that is now the standard for any dental clinic, generates silent vibration oscillations with an interval of 16,000 to 45,000 hertz. Amplitude adjustment allows you to choose the optimal modes for working with specific types of plaque and tartar, as well as take into account the individual characteristics of the jaw region.
Ultrasonic teeth cleaning, video and photo of which you can find on the website of the Dentika dental network, guarantees the elimination of not only visually noticeable yellow plaque, but also pathogenic trace elements and bacteria that accumulate in the periodontal pockets and can provoke the development of inflammatory processes. Stony deposits, split into small elements, are removed with a “vacuum cleaner”, after which the enamel coating is washed with a water jet. Grinding and polishing with nylon brushes and abrasive pastes restore the natural shine for a more attractive smile.
Indications for use
The preventive nature of the technique leads to recommendations for undergoing the procedure at least once every six months. Considering how ultrasonic teeth cleaning is performed (it is not painful and takes only 30-40 minutes), as well as the result obtained from a visit to a dental clinic, today the technology is rightfully considered the best solution for those who seek to maintain oral health. In addition to fighting plaque and calculus, the ultrasonic wave also removes age spots and accumulated layers of dyes, brightening the enamel by several tonnes.
It should be noted that the frequency should be determined based on the results of clinical diagnostics, which allows the formation of a detailed picture of the state of the elements of the dentition and gingival tissues. Individual features are also manifested in the intensity of the formation of pathogenic deposits. Practice shows that in some cases one visit to the dentist during the year is enough, while some patients have to resort to professional services quarterly.
Another factor, the presence of which determines the recommendation to brush your teeth with ultrasound, is the preparation for prosthetics, including the installation of implants. The need for treatment is due to an increased risk of infection entering the cavity formed under the replacement structure.
Ultrasonic teeth Contraindications and possible complications
Preliminary diagnostics are also required to identify possible medical limitations that preclude the possibility of using the technique under consideration. Factors in this category include:
- Previous installation of a pacemaker responsible for maintaining the heart rhythm, as well as other electronic devices that perform life support functions. The range of influence characteristic of ultrasound waves is not limited to the oral cavity alone – the generated vibrations can be transmitted throughout the body, disrupting the operation of stimulating implants or even disabling them.
- Increased susceptibility of enamel. Sensitivity, associated with both a noticeable destruction of the protective layer and chronic anomalies, becomes a contraindication to ultrasonic teeth cleaning, since the harm caused during the removal of bacteria and pigments while remaining minimal, is still potentially able to aggravate the situation.
- The initial stage of pregnancy. During the bearing of a child, the female body becomes especially sensitive to any external influences. Violation of metabolic processes can result in a negative impact on the condition of the fetus, especially during the first trimester. In the later stages, provided there are no other pathologies, restrictions on the procedure are removed.
Interchangeable bite period. In childhood, it is recommended to refrain from professional cleaning – due to the insufficient thickness of the enamel, the formation of which takes a certain period of time. The average period is two years from the moment the last root unit appeared (not counting the “eights”). - cardiological problems. Ultrasonic exposure can provoke short-term cardiac arrhythmias associated with a risk to the patient’s health.
- Chronic diseases, including bronchitis and asthma. Vibrations that occur during processing can cause the contraction of vascular lumens and the occurrence of a spasmodic reaction, resulting in uncontrolled suffocation.
In addition, the list includes various current infectious pathologies. This is an important contraindication to ultrasonic teeth cleaning because such medical intervention increases the risk of bacteria entering the structure of soft tissues. It is also mandatory to specify the presence of an allergy to the anesthetics used.
How is the procedure for ultrasonic teeth cleaning
The algorithm includes several successive steps. The first stage is a visual examination, during which the condition of the oral cavity is assessed and the main problem areas are identified. To determine the accumulation of plaque in hard-to-reach places – for example, on the lingual side – special equipment is used. When planning a deep cleansing, as well as in cases where the patient is diagnosed with hypersensitivity, local anesthesia is recommended.
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The next phase is the actual application of the scaler, divided into several stages:
- Treatment of the vestibular surface of the enamel coating.
- Removal of stony deposits along the gingival contour.
- Cleansing of periodontal pockets.
Grinding involves the use of pastes with abrasive fine-grained elements and allows you to smooth out the resulting irregularities and roughness. The final stage is polishing, due to which the surface becomes smoother and less prone to plaque accumulation in the future. To strengthen the structure, it may also be recommended to apply products containing an increased concentration of fluorine.
Pros and cons of ultrasonic teeth cleaning
Among the positive aspects noted by professional dentists include the following factors:
- The minimum duration of the procedure.
- No need for special training.
- Minimum discomfort for the patient.
- Effective removal of tartar and plaque.
- The quality of treatment of areas under the gums.
- Preparation for planned treatment or prosthetics.
- Lightening the shade of the enamel coating.
- Strengthening the structure and prevention of pathologies.
- Affordable cost.
However, speaking about how ultrasonic teeth clean, it would be useful to mention the disadvantages.
- The presence of a number of medical restrictions and contraindications.
- The need for anesthesia in case of hypersensitivity.
- Potential – albeit low – the probability of damage to mucous tissues.
In addition, in some cases, complete removal of the stone is impossible due to the presence of complications associated with the prolonged development of the pathological condition.
oral care
Professional cleaning offered by Dentika dental centers allows you to restore the aesthetics of your smile and ensures the maintenance of a healthy row. To maintain the achieved effect, you must strictly follow medical recommendations:
- For a week, brush your teeth after each meal using a high fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
- Refrain from smoking for 10-14 days, as tobacco smoke has a significant effect on the shade of the enamel coating.
- Avoid eating excessively hot or cold foods that can provoke an increase in sensitivity.
- Exclude from the diet drinks and fruits containing aggressive pigments that can stain the enamel.
If you experience discomfort, and even more pain, you should use drugs intended for the treatment of soft tissues. In addition, in the later periods it is recommended:
- Change your brush at least once every two months.
- Use high-quality toothpaste and rinses.
- Stick to the recommended care schedule.
It is advised to visit the clinic for a routine examination every six months.
FAQ
Now let’s look at the points that are usually of interest to most patients in dental clinics.
Is it harmful to brush your teeth with ultrasound?
In cases where the diagnosis did not reveal any medical contraindications, the technique is absolutely safe and harmless. On the contrary, the treatment has a positive effect on the state of the enamel layer, helping to eliminate pathogenic elements and strengthen the structure.
How often can the procedure be performed?
To maintain aesthetics and prevent pathologies, it is recommended to adhere to a six-month schedule. During this period, a sufficient amount of bacteria has time to accumulate on the surface, representing a potential threat to the development of pathological processes. The final decision is made based on the results of the examination and depends on the individual characteristics of the organism.
Is ultrasonic cleaning at home real?
Buying and installing a scaler on your own is theoretically possible, but a useless solution in practice. The treatment should be carried out by a qualified dentist who monitors the main indicators of the condition of the teeth and gums. Alternatively, the use of brushes equipped with a special mechanism that creates vibratory vibrations is allowed.
Is the method safe during pregnancy?
Due to the fact that in the early stages, the placenta has not yet developed a sufficient level of protective properties, and in the last trimester the uterus is highly sensitive to any effects on the body, it is recommended to schedule a visit to the clinic between the fourth and sixth months (or postpone to a later date). During a visit to the dentist, be sure to notify the doctor about your situation.
Summing up
So, now you know how ultrasonic teeth cleaning is carried out, whether the technique is harmful to the condition of the enamel, and how often you should visit the clinic to maintain a healthy and attractive smile. Specialists of the Dentika centers are always ready to provide additional information and find a convenient time for making an appointment. Contact us!