A 38-year-old member asked:
Can a dental ultrasonic scaler hurt?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Gary Sandleranswered
Dentistry 56 years experience
Ultrasonic scalers: Most of my patients find ultrasonic scaling slightly uncomfortable and then only for some of their teeth. Some patients use nitrous oxide\oxygen analgesia (sweet air) and with it are quite comfortable. A few request or require local anesthesia.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
Periodontics 35 years experience
Yes!: They can hurt while they are being used on you and they can potentially hurt the tooth. If the ultrasonic has a tuner and is being used by a knowledgeable clinician, they save time and are great. If it is painful, then ask for anesthetic which might increase your treatment time and cost but it's better than leaving tartar on your teeth.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 39-year-old member asked:
Does it hurt when using a dental ultrasonic scaler?
2 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Mark Venincasaanswered
Dentistry - Cosmetic 37 years experience
Possibly...: If your gums are inflamed you may be sensitive to the ultrasonic scaler..... In some situations the mouth can be anesthetized prior to this procedure.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 42-year-old member asked:
How can I ask my dental hygienist not to use the ultrasonic scaler?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Charles Kattuahanswered
Dentistry 25 years experience
Just do it. : Although ultrasonic scalers work really well when used properly they are not necessary to do a good cleaning. If your teeth or hearing is too sensitive to this type of scaler there is no reason your hygienist can't accommodate your request to do it by hand.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 36-year-old member asked:
What to do if I do not want my dental hygienist to use the ultrasonic scaler?
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Theodore Davantzisanswered
Dentistry 42 years experience
Hand scaling: Ask that your teeth be cleaned with hand scalers.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 15, 2015
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