Top 3 Tips for Knowing When to Replace Your Ultrasonic Inserts/Tips
Dental hygienists rely on their instruments to provide safe, effective care. Over time, ultrasonic inserts and tips (UITs) can wear down, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing discomfort to patients as well as putting hygienists’ musculoskeletal health at risk.
Ensuring that your ultrasonic inserts and tips (UITs) are in optimal condition is key to maintaining high-quality care, minimizing the need for excessive pressure during procedures and preventing equipment malfunction. Additionally, high-quality UITs require less operator pressure. Following are three tips to help decide when it’s time to replace your UITs.
- Evaluate Tip Length and Shape
Regularly check the length and shape of your scaler tips or inserts. A loss of 1 mm of active tip reduces efficiency by 25%, while a 2 mm loss means the insert is operating at 50% efficiency and should be replaced. Compare against a new UIT or use the manufacturer’s wear guide for accurate assessment. - Check Critical Components
Inspect the stack, o-rings, and water port for wear and damage. If the stack is bent or the o-rings are cracked, it may cause vibration or water flow issues. Replace compromised parts or the entire insert if needed to maintain performance. - Monitor Piezo Tips and Wrenches
For piezoelectric tips, ensure the tip is securely in place and the wrench is intact. Worn flats on the tip or cracked wrenches can lead to poor performance, indicating it’s time for replacement.
Regular assessments help ensure optimal performance and patient comfort. Click here to read more.
