Do electric tools that clean someone's teeth work better or worse than old-fashioned scraping? the modern tools don't take much time and seem worse.

Instruments: Electronic ultrasonic scalers are extremely effective as an adjunct in the cleaning process. They are not a replacement for hand instruments. A proper cleaning will use both. The tactile sense you have with the hand instruments allows the provider to feel the surfaces and find buildup left behind. The ultrasonic on the other hand removes deposits easily and quickly.

Both work well: The ultimate goal is to remove all deposits on the tooth and root surface. They both work well when used properly and the clinician is diligent. Most dentists and dental hygienists use both as necessary and may favor one or the other based upon their own personal preferences. The expertise and care of the operator is key, rather than which particular method is used.

Cleaning teeth: Mechanical aids that patients can use are not as effective as those the dentist or hygienist may use. This is especially true of calculus and stain.

Scalers: All scientific studies show that when used correctly, both types do an equally good job.