Periodontal scaler

[2] Scalers have scraping edges on both sides of their blades and thus are fit for both mesial and distal surfaces of any tooth in the area in which they are being used.

[3] With the broad variation of instrument designs and materials, it allows dental professionals to implement periodontal therapy with reduced strain and increased comfort levels for both the clinician and the patient.

[4] Additionally, they have triangular cross sections; this limits their instrumentation use to above the gingiva (supragingival) to prevent any tissue trauma.

[4] It is crucial to tilt the lower shank of the periodontal scaler slightly towards the tooth surface being worked on to obtain correct angulation.

[4] The instrument is then walked across the surface being worked on with short, controlled, overlapping strokes while applying moderate pressure.

[4] Simultaneously, the clinician must roll the handle of the instrument to maintain adaptation throughout, to prevent any soft tissue injury.

[6] These principles form a foundation to improve efficiency and effectiveness of periodontal therapy while protecting the proper ergonomics of the clinician.

Periodontal scaler
Periodontal scaler s have sharp tips to access tight embrasure spaces between teeth and are triangular in cross-section.
A posterior scaler shown in relation to a posterior tooth on a typodont .
The anterior scaler (yellow ring) is straight, while the posterior scaler (orange ring) has an angled terminal shank (highlighted in red) to allow for easy access to the surfaces of posterior teeth.