Glossary entry
Piezoelectric Scaling
Also called: Piezo ultrasonic
Piezoelectric scaling uses ceramic crystals that deform under alternating current to produce linear tip vibrations at 25-50 kHz, delivering efficient calculus removal with less heat than magnetostrictive.
What is piezoelectric scaling?
A piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler generates tip oscillation by applying alternating current to stacked piezoelectric ceramic crystals, which expand and contract to drive a linear, back-and-forth tip motion at frequencies typically 25-50 kHz. Amplitude is smaller than magnetostrictive scalers but more precise.
Piezo generates less heat than magnetostrictive scaling, making it generally preferable for subgingival work and extended root instrumentation. It is the technology behind EMS PIEZON, Acteon Newtron, NSK Varios, and Mectron Multipiezo.
When is it used?
Piezoelectric scalers are preferred for:
- Subgingival debridement
- Periodontal root planing
- Peri-implant maintenance (with compatible plastic/PEEK tips)
- Endodontic access and retreatment