Preventio Hub. Last updated: October 16, 2026.
Both types of ultrasonic scaler are regulated in the same FDA category (ultrasonic scaler, product code ELC, 21 CFR 872.4850, class II). This page explains the technical difference, compares example models on their published specifications, and lists what to ask a supplier. It is not a ranking and it does not summarize clinical trials.
Short answer
- Both types are regulated in the same FDA category and both are used for supra- and subgingival scaling.
- Results in practice depend on the specific device, the tips or inserts, the power setting and the water supply and temperature, so a model-by-model comparison of published specifications is more useful than a technology ranking.
- Your team's training, the insert or tip range you already own, warranty terms and whether you want a combined scaler-and-polisher unit usually decide.
How they work
- Magnetostrictive: a magnetic field in the handpiece makes a metal stack or rod in the insert vibrate. The tip moves in an elliptical pattern and all surfaces of the tip are active. The insert warms in use and relies on water flow for cooling (Dentsply Sirona describes the Cavitron Plus as producing 30,000 strokes per second).
- Piezoelectric: ceramic elements in the handpiece drive a mainly linear tip movement; the lateral surfaces of the tip do most of the work. Piezo units often include power regulation and, in several models, heated irrigation.
Spec-sheet comparison of example models
| Dentsply Sirona Cavitron Plus | Mectron Combi Touch | NSK Varios Combi Pro2 (U.S.) | EMS AIRFLOW Prophylaxis Master / GBT Machine | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Magnetostrictive, 30K | Piezo, 24-36 kHz automatic scan | Piezo, 28-32 kHz, up to 11 W | Piezo, 24-32 kHz (Master: up to 8 W) |
| Includes air polishing | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Irrigation temperature | Input water must be below 77 °F (25 °C); no heater stated | Heated polishing water; ultrasonic irrigation by peristaltic pump | Heated water (NSK USA) | Master: five settings from unheated to 104 °F |
| Water supply | 20-40 psi | 15-87 psi mains or 500 ml bottle | Irrigation bottle set | Master: 29-73 psi |
| Power | 100-240 V, 1.0 A | 100-240 V, 90 VA | 100-120 V | Master: 100-240 V; GBT Machine confirm with supplier |
| Weight | 4.4 lb (2 kg) | 4.8 kg | 3.5 kg | Master: up to 5 kg |
| FDA / Health Canada | FDA: confirm with supplier / 70192 | K231391 / 98936 | K260773 / 115743 | K190124 / 102646; K253254 / 114177 |
| Price | Price on request | Price on request | Price on request | Price on request |
Practical differences that may matter more than the technology
- Inserts and warranty. Dentsply Sirona's warranty statement says non-Cavitron inserts void the warranty on Cavitron scalers. Acteon's Newtron manual says other makers' inserts can damage the handpiece and void the warranty. Ask every supplier what tips and inserts are covered.
- Irrigation and comfort features. Heated irrigation is built into several piezo combined units (see table). The magnetostrictive Cavitron Plus IFU describes an extended low-power range (Blue Zone) and a lavage control for patient comfort.
- Implanted devices. The Cavitron Plus IFU cautions about cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators and other active implanted devices and recommends keeping the handpiece and cables 6 to 9 inches away. We only verified this one IFU; check the IFU for any unit you buy.
- Reprocessing. CDC says handpieces and attachments that can be removed from the air and water lines must be cleaned and heat sterilized between patients, following the validated manufacturer instructions.
- One console or two. Piezo scalers are available in combined units with air polishers; the Cavitron Plus is a scaler only (the Cavitron Jet Plus combines both).
Questions to ask suppliers
- Which inserts or tips are included and which are covered by the warranty?
- Is water heated, and what water pressure and temperature does the unit need (in psi and °F)?
- What is the FDA 510(k) or Health Canada licence number for this exact model and kit?
- What is the written service turnaround in my state or province?
- Can I trial the unit with my own hygienists before buying?
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, piezo or magnetostrictive?
This page does not rank the two. Both are cleared in the same FDA category, and the right choice depends on the model, the inserts or tips, your team's training and the warranty terms. Compare the published specifications of the exact models you are considering.
Is one safer for patients with pacemakers?
We have not verified a device-independent answer. The Cavitron Plus IFU includes a pacemaker precaution; read the IFU for any model and consult the patient's physician.
Do I need heated water?
Several piezo combined units list heated irrigation (see the table); the Cavitron Plus IFU requires input water below 77 °F (25 °C) and states no heater. Ask each supplier what water supply and temperature the unit needs.
How much do they cost?
Price on request.
Related pages
- Device sheet: Dentsply Sirona Cavitron Plus (magnetostrictive)
- Device sheet: Mectron Combi Touch (piezo)
- Device sheet: NSK Varios Combi Pro2 (piezo)
- Device sheet: EMS AIRFLOW Prophylaxis Master (piezo)
- Combined tabletop systems compared
Sources (checked October 16, 2026)
- Dentsply Sirona Cavitron Plus IFU, document 81864 Rev 04/23: dentsplysirona.com/IFU
- CDC, Best Practices for Dental Handpieces: www.cdc.gov/dental-infection-control/hcp/dental-ipc-faqs/dental-handpieces.html
- FDA 510(k) and Health Canada MDALL records as listed on our device sheets
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