The following section shows procedures
and results obtained by CRA from over a year long comparison of automated scaling
devices, both ultrasonic (tip vibrates between 25,000 & 42,000 Hz) and sonic
(tip vibrates between 3,500 and 9,000 Hz). During this evaluation 25
moderate to heavy calculus patients were treated by a total of 5 clinicians.
To facilitate accurate comparisons, as much as possible, each automated scaler
unit was used on each patient treated. Grades (such as calculus removal
rate and patient comfort, for example) were based on a compilation of comments
made during each patient treatment by clinicians and patients. Multiple
lab tests were also conducted as part of this comparison.
This section is designed to be used in conjunction with the June
1998 CRA Newsletter (Vol. 22, Issue 6) and does not replace the information
contained in the original publication.