The differences lie in how the two devices function.

They also both have a variety of inserts for various needs such as removing heavy deposits, root planing, etc. Both have been clearly proven to be effective for calculus and stain removal. Magnetostrictive (available from Dentsply and Parkell) and piezoelectric (available from EMS and Hu-Friedy) power scalers are the two types of ultrasonic devices seen in dental hygiene practice. When these bubbles collapse, they disrupt the cell walls of harmful bacteria. Additionally, cavitation occurs when bubbles form in the water stream. A significant benefit of ultrasonic scalers over sonic scalers is the water lavage that deplaques and washes away debris in the periodontal pocket. Ultrasonic scalers operate at a higher frequency of about 20 to 50 kilohertz (kHz) and may be either magnetostrictive or piezoelectric. They attach to the dental unit's high-speed handpiece tubing and are driven by compressed air. Sonic scalers (e.g., the Titan scaler) operate at a frequency of 3,000 to 8,000 hertz (i.e., cycles per second Hz). Powered scaling devices can be grouped into two categories, sonic and ultrasonic, based on the frequencies at which they operate. The use of power scalers benefits the gingiva and also produces less operator wrist fatigue than hand scaling. By Karissa Sebero, CRDH, CDA, and Rachel Kelly, CRDH, BS

Piezo ultrasonic scaler