Proof of efficacy of different modified sonic scaler inserts used for debridement in furcations‹a dummy head trail
In this research, a study was made of the efficacy of different scaling instruments for removal of hard and soft bacterial deposits within the furcation in surgery and maintenance. The four different types of instruments that were studied were (1) a hand instrument (h), (2) a conventional sonic scaler insert (ss), (3) a set of three modified sonic scaler inserts with budded tip and different angulated shafts (ssb), and (4) a set of three sonic scaler inserts with a plastic coating and different angulated shafts. Twelve upper and 12 lower plastic replicated molars with class 3 furcation were used. A hard layer of lacquer was applied to the furcation to represent "calculus/cementum," and an easily removable surface- coated material was applied to represent plaque. The following parameters were used to assess the efficacy of these instruments: time needed for instrumentation, loss of weight, depth of substance removal at the furcation entrance, and the percentage of furcation area instrumented. Removal of these two different layers was assessed separately. In conclusion, hand instrument, conventional sonic scaler, and budded sonic scaler insert (in order) are more effective in removal of calculus and plaque, but they lead to tooth weight loss and pronounced substance removal. Therefore, it is better to use these instruments for the surgery time. The plastic-coated sonic scaler seems to be efficient in the removal of plaque and might be a reasonable choice of maintenance treatment of furcation. [F.M.]
Kocher, T.,A. Ruhling, M. Herweg, and H.-C. Plagman, J Clin Periodont, 23:662,1996