DT L8

Sickle Scalers

  • A periodontal instrument designed specifically for removing calculus deposits from the crowns of teeth.

  • NOT suitable for root surfaces.

Unique Design Characteristics

  • Pointed tip: Allow for precise access and removal of calculus.

  • Triangular cross-section: Aids in effective engagement with dental surfaces.

  • Two cutting edges per working-end: Increases efficiency during scaling.

  • Face positioning: The face of a sickle scaler is perpendicular to the lower shank.

Uses

  • Primarily utilized for the removal of medium- to large-sized supragingival calculus deposits.

  • Should not be used on root surfaces to prevent damage.

Angulation Awareness

Anterior Teeth Use

  • When employing an anterior sickle scaler, ensure the face of the working-end is at a 90-degree angle to the lower shank.

Impact of Design on Angulation

  • Incorrect positioning of the lower shank parallel to the tooth surface results in a face-to-tooth angulation of 90 degrees, which is not ideal.

  • Correct angulation is achieved by tilting the lower shank toward the tooth surface, producing a face-to-tooth angulation of 70 to 80 degrees.

Technique for Anterior Sickle Scaler

  1. Step 1: Begin scaling at the midline of the tooth and work toward the proximal surface.

  2. Step 2: Position the tip-third of the working-end near the midline; tilt the lower shank to establish correct angulation.

  3. Step 3: Make strokes across the facial surface toward the mesial surface.

  4. Step 4: At the line angle, roll the instrument handle to maintain adaptation of the tip-third.

  5. Step 5: Continue making strokes along the mesial surface while ensuring angulation remains between 70- and 80-degrees.

  6. Step 6: Ensure strokes extend at least halfway across the mesial surface.

Posterior Sextants

Choosing the Correct Working-End

  • Utilize a double-ended posterior instrument; Working-end 1 and Working-end 2 must be selected based on the functional shank orientation.

Establishing Angulation

  • Correct angulation is essential; ensure a face-to-tooth surface angulation of 70 to 80 degrees for effective calculus removal.

Procedure Steps

  1. Step 1: Establish a finger rest and position the working-end in the Get Ready Zone.

  2. Step 2: Ensure the lower shank is parallel to the distal surface and keep the functional shank up and over the tooth during the procedure.

Technique for Posterior Sickle Scaler

  1. Step 1: Select the correct working end.

  2. Step 2: Position the tip-third of the instrument at the distofacial line angle and work towards the distal surface.

  3. Step 3: Check angulation by tilting the lower shank toward the tooth surface to maintain a 70 to 80-degree angle.

  4. Step 4: Reposition at the distofacial line angle with the tip facing forward and tilt towards the surface.

  5. Step 5: Make strokes across the facial surface and roll the handle to maintain adaptation at the line angle.

  6. Step 6: Continue strokes across at least halfway across the mesial surface as necessary.

Practical Focus

  • Concepts for Effective Scaling:

    • Ensure correct working-end positioning and appropriate angulation to maintain efficiency in calculus removal.

Final Notes on Effective Instrumentation

  • Steps for calculus removal include focusing on:

    1. Patient positioning and comfort.

    2. Equipment readiness and accurate adaptation of the working-end.

    3. Maintaining stabilization and angulation throughout the procedure for optimal results.