As clinicians we make decisions daily on what armamentarium available to us will best fit the case of the patient seated in our operatory. Hand scalers, ultrasonic scalers, handpieces, and lasers are essential components of the toolkit we use to deliver optimal care. Our mission is to help our patients maintain and achieve their overall health and wellness goals. I will admit that around the house in a pinch I will use a butter knife instead of a screwdriver, but when practicing dental hygiene we should always have the right tools on our tray to perform the important tasks we are entrusted with. As the industry continues to advance, we must continue to equip ourselves with the knowledge and equipment to meet the challenge of delivering care to patients who have diverse needs. We must practice at an optimal level by continuing to advance ourselves.
I remember the first time in clinic when I was able to hold hand scalers. My classmates and I excitedly began flipping the scalers around and examined their shanks and working ends. When we finally were permitted to use ultrasonic scalers, we were beyond ecstatic. To this day, opening brand new instruments still brings back that initial excitement of my first experience with equipment in clinic.
Since I graduated, instrument companies have continued to steadily make advancements in hygiene instrumentation. These advancements enhance efficiency and comfort and improve outcomes. Advancements in hand instruments include the
nano-coated and titanium-coated options that help resist wear and maintain sharp edges, and they are compatible with treating implants, thus preventing damage to implant surfaces. This benefits us as clinicians in being able to use tools that last longer, and we also become more capable of delivering superior patient outcomes.
Hand instruments are currently being made to be more ergonomic. These instruments may have handles that are larger in diameter, are made from lightweight materials, and have textured grips. Ergonomic hand instruments can help reduce the risk of hand injuries, improve precision when scaling, and allow the clinician increased efficiency during treatment. Although many clinicians have brand loyalty to their favorite instrument companies, having an array of diverse instruments on your tray can help avoid repetitive strain. It is also important to regularly sharpen hand instruments or to use instruments that have self-sharpening technology.
There has been increased clinician usage of air polishing systems. Air polishing has been shown to provide quicker and more effective stain removal with minimal enamel abrasion, using a targeted spray. Most clinicians appreciate modern hygiene handpieces that are ergonomic, have noise reduction technology, reduce strain, and can be corded or cordless. Cordless options can be more ergonomic and offer flexibility and ease of use due to not being attached to an often-heavy cord. A cordless option does often require frequent charging, whereas a corded handpiece can ensure the user continuous power but may restrict in the mobility of the device.
With changes in regulations in many states, more dental hygienists are now able to use lasers to perform minimally invasive treatments that help promote healing. Lasers also help reduce bacteria in periodontal pockets, promote the reattachment of gingival tissues, and help improve periodontal health. Hygienists must complete laser training to become certified. Although there is an initial investment in becoming certified, it can potentially pay off later in negotiating wages for future employment.
As the profession of dental hygiene continues to change, it is imperative that we as clinicians continue to stay updated on these changes to better service our patients and to practice in a safe and efficient manner. Attending conferences can allow a dental hygienist to take hands-on courses that will allow one to try various scalers or technology that one may not be familiar with. Taking hands-on continuing education courses, trying out new armamentarium, and becoming laser certified if possible are all positive steps. We can elevate the quality of preventative and periodontal treatments we deliver to our patients. Having an open mind to possibly learning how to practice with using new techniques and instruments that we have used in the past can seem initially daunting, however often the results can prove exhilarating.
Kari Carter-Cherelus, RDH
West Palm Beach, Florida
Figures and Images
Kari Carter-Cherelus, RDH
