Table 1.

Comparison of traditional and contemporary ultrasonic inserts and approaches¹²

Traditional ultrasonic instrumentation	Contemporary ultrasonic instrumentation
Thick diameter inserts	Thin or ultra-thin diameter inserts
Subgingival access limited	Subgingival access is superior
Moderate to heavy calculus removal	Light calculus removal with focus on biofilm removal
Instrument contacts calculus	Instrument contacts calculus and/or cementum/dentin
Medium to high power settings typical	Low power settings typical; medium may be an option
Basic level of knowledge/skill and short “time on task” to achieve competence	Higher level of knowledge/skill and a longer “time on task” to achieve competence
Complete debridement requires use of hand instruments	Complete debridement possible with ultrasonics
Client comfort challenging	Client comfort most usual