Fundamental Study of the Effects of Ultrasonic Scaler on Root Structure Especially on the Furcation Areas

• Published in: Nihon Shishubyo Gakkai Kaishi (Journal of the Japanese Society of Periodontology) Vol. 32; no. 3; pp. 792 - 799
• Main Authors: FUJIKAWA, Kenji, SUGANO, Naoyuki, TOMURA, Shinichi, NISHIKATA, Jun-ichi, UJIIE, Hisashi, TAKAHASHI, Kensaku
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Japanese
• Published: JAPANESE SOCIETY OF PERIODONTOLOGY 28.09.1990
• Subjects: Root structure; Scaling efficiency; Subgingival scaling; Ultrasonic scaler
• ISSN: 0385-0110; 1880-408X
• DOI: 10.2329/perio.32.792

The purpose of this study was to evaluate by fundamental study the effects of the ultrasonic scaler (ENAC-3: SC-1, SC-5, SC-6, Diamond file) on the root surface, which consists of the bucco-lingual, mesio-distal and furcation areas. Before starting this study, nail enamel was applied to all of the root surfaces of artificial lower first molars. After scaling and root planing procedures by hand and with several types of ultrasonic scaler, each artificial tooth separated into mesial and distal roots without breaking the dome of the furcation areas. Each root surface was photographed at the regular angle so as to obtain the identical area of root surface on each. According to the amount of retained nail enamel on each root surface, the area of surface and the vertical or horizontal distance from CEJ were determined and analyzed statistically. Root structure after instrumentation was examined by SEM. The following results were obtained: 1) Without any obstruction to the scaling procedure, SC-5 produced the same smooth surface which could be obtained with a Gracey scaler. However, rough root surfaces were frequently recognized after using SC-5 and SC-6 chips due to their rounded tips. 2) In the furcation areas, SC-6 produced the best results of instrumentation for approaches in the vertical and horizontal directions.