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→Powered Instruments
===Powered Instruments===
===Powered Instruments===
[[File:Ultrasonic scaler tip 2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Ultrasonic scaler tip<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]
[[File:Piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]
[[File:Ultrasonic scaler tip.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Ultrasonic scaler tip for use with a piezoelectric scaler.<small>''© Lisa Milella 2013''</small>]]
'''Mechanical or powered scalers''' allow easy removal of calculus, are more time efficient to use, and require less training to use effectively. Unfortunately though, they have a greater potential for iatrogenic damage if used incorrectly. There are three types of mechanical scalers, namely sonic, ultrasonic and rotary.<br><br>
'''Mechanical or powered scalers''' allow easy removal of calculus, are more time efficient to use, and require less training to use effectively. Unfortunately though, they have a greater potential for iatrogenic damage if used incorrectly. There are three types of mechanical scalers, namely sonic, ultrasonic and rotary.<br><br>
'''Sonic scalers''' are driven by compressed air, so they require a compressed air driven dental unit for operation. The tip of the scaler oscillates at a sonic frequency. They are generally less effective than ultrasonic scalers, but generate less heat and are thus less likely to cause iatrogenic damage to the tooth surface. Most sonic scalers are designed for supragingival scaling but can be used subgingivally if the appropriate tip is used. <br><br>
'''Sonic scalers''' are driven by compressed air, so they require a compressed air driven dental unit for operation. The tip of the scaler oscillates at a sonic frequency. They are generally less effective than ultrasonic scalers, but generate less heat and are thus less likely to cause iatrogenic damage to the tooth surface. Most sonic scalers are designed for supragingival scaling but can be used subgingivally if the appropriate tip is used. <br><br>