摘要 |
A powered dental scaler is disclosed of a type which drives a vibrating scaling tip in a circular or ellipsoidal pattern of motion. A scaling tip having working surfaces provided by the edges of an elongated, curved element which has a cross-sectional configuration in the shape of a multi-sided figure, e.g., a triangle or a diamond, is particularly useful with a scaler having this type of vibrational pattern. Each of the longitudinal edges has a radius of curvature in the range of about 0.001 inch to about 0.005 inch. The free end of the scaler work tool preferably terminates in rounded or ball-shaped configurations, and the working surfaces can be joined along inactive edges by a convex surface to provide "safe" surfaces. The absence of sharp edges or points on the scaler tool work surfaces substantially reduces the likelihood of damage to tooth dentin, cementum or gums. |