water connection on the dental unit. The water supply pressure should range from a minimum of 25 psi to a maximum of 60 psi. Water pressure outside of this range can cause the equipment to malfunction. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific information.
Flush the waterline daily before use to reduce the bacteria that accumulates overnight. Set the water flow to maximum and depress the foot switch for 1 minute without an insert in the handpiece. Before use on each patient, flush the waterline for 30 seconds.
A wide variety of inserts are available for use with the ultrasonic scaler. Each insert is designed for a specific use. A power level is recommended by the manufacturer for each insert.
Tip selection is based on the type, location, and amount of calculus deposits present. Larger tips are effective in removing heavy supragingival calculus deposits and stains, where smaller tips used by a dentist or hvgienist are similar in design to a scaler and can be used subgingivally. The tips should be dull so they will not damage the tooth and root surface. The various tips and their uses are as follows:
Beaver-tail ultrasonic tip (fig. 3-9) - Used on the lingual and facial posterior surfaces to remove very heavy, supragingival deposits. Use light pressure with an erasing motion for stain removal and overlapping strokes for calculus removal. Avoid using the sides or face of this insert. Use the high power level with this insert.
Figure 3-9. - Beaver-tail ultrasonic tip.
Chisel ultrasonic tip (fig. 3-10) - Used for removing supragingival calculus on anterior teeth. Place the tip against the proximal tooth surface and use a horizontal stroke to remove the calculus. Set the power level on high for this insert.
Universal ultrasonic tip (fig. 3-11) - The most commonly used tip for supra and subgingival calculus deposits in all areas. The universal tip is ideally suited for finishing after completing heavier scaling procedures. Use the sides of the insert with only light pressure, and push or pull strokes. Set the power level at high for this insert.
Periodontal probe ultrasonic tip (fig. 3-12) - Used to remove subgingival calculus. Used by dentist or dental hygienist with a horizontal or vertical stroke. Set the Dower level on medium for this insert.
Figure 3-10. - Chisel ultrasonic tip.
Figure 3-11. - Universal ultrasonic tip.
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