Use of ultrasound in dentistry

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) is mechanical vibrations above the frequency range audible by the human ear in the frequency range of 20000–1010 Hz. The frequency boundary between sonic and ultrasonic waves is due to the properties of human hearing and corresponds to the upper limit of audible sound. Each ultrasonic frequency zone is characterized by its own application features. The use of ultrasound in dentistry significantly improves the quality of treatment of patients and facilitates the work of the doctor. The therapeutic effect of ultrasonication is a combination of thermal, mechanical and physico-chemical actions. During thermal action, tissues absorb energy, and consequently, deep heating occurs. Under mechanical action, microdisplacement of particles occurs, resulting in micromassage of cells and tissues. Under physical and chemical influences, the course of redox processes changes, enzymes are activated, and complex protein complexes are broken down into ordinary organic molecules. Ultrasound is a strong factor in stimulating blood flow, which makes its use possible in all cases of blood flow depletion and hypoxia. An increase in blood flow in the sounded tissue contributes to oxygen saturation and enrichment with nutrients, an increase in the rate of redox reactions and metabolic processes in general. This review discusses the modern principles of the use of ultrasound in dentistry.