How Does It Work?
Surprisingly, the mechanism of action underlying the operation of ultrasonic scaler on microscopic scale is somewhat controversial. Recent contributions claim that ultrasonic scalers generate acoustic cavitation in the medium surrounding the teeth. The collapsing bubbles involved in the process emit shock waves that strike and degrade the plaque layer. Since cavitation can not occur in a dry environment, it comes out that the role of the liquid output of the ultrasonic scaler during its operation is far more essential than cooling and rinsing; the presence of water, or better a mixture of water and air, enables the process to occur.
Read more about this topic: Scaling And Root Planing, Physical Principles