The effect of the Vector® scaler system on human teeth: a systematic review

Aim: To review the available literature, considering the effect of instrumentation with the Vector® ultrasonic scaler on human teeth in vitro and in vivo compared to conventional ultrasonic instruments and/or hand instrumentation. The assessed effects are calculus removal, time of instrumentation, root surface aspects, cell attachment, patients' perception, bleeding upon probing, pocket depth, clinical attachment loss and microbiological effects. Materials and methods: MEDLINE-PubMed and the Cochrane Central register of controlled trials (CENTRAL) were searched up through January 2008 to identify appropriate studies. Results: Independent screening of the titles and abstracts of 270 MEDLINE-PubMed and 15 Cochrane papers resulted in 15 suitable publications. The studies differed in design and outcome, so this review summarizes the outcomes in a descriptive manner. Comparisons are presented against conventional ultrasonic system and scaling and root planing. Conclusion: The Vector® ultrasonic scaler provided comparable clinical and microbiological periodontal healing results as scaling and root planing and conventional ultrasonic system in moderately deep pockets. The Vector® ultrasonic scaler may be used as a gentle root debridement device for supportive periodontal therapy, as an alternative to other conventional ultrasonic system. The operator should however consider the extra time needed for instrumentation