Sharpening of ultrasonic sealers

Abstract Instruments suitable for removing calculus, plaque and necrotic cementum, which hinder normal periodontal reattachment, are extremely important for successful therapy. The test was carried out in order to see if a standard sealer used for ultrasonic tartar removal maintains its physical features when sharpened. 6 sealers, compatible with piezoelectric generators, were tested and 2 diameters, A and B, weights and resonance frequencies were measured. Sealers no. 2, 3, 4, 5, were sharpened with India stone, sealer no. 6 with rotatory instrument; sealer no. 1 was not sharpened and was used as control. All measurements were taken again at the end of the test. Statistical analysis reveals significant variations, after sharpening, of A diameter (t= 4.14 > 3.55, p < 0.01), B diameter (p= 5.34 > 3.355, p < 0.01) and resonance frequency (t= 2.82 > 2.306, p < 0.05); in contrast, there is no significant change of weights (t= 1.17 < 2.306, p > 0.05). These results suggest that sharpening slightly modifies the physical features of ultrasonic tips, so that sharpening ultrasonic sealers, from a physical point of view, can be carried out, paying attention not to damage the water cooling system. Copyright © 1991, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserve