Explain the types of care of teeths
a) Plastic/ Nylon Scalers: These are available in a variety of shapes and are moderately effective in calculus removal. Can be Ultrasonically cleaned and autoclaved in the usual manner while some are available as reusable handle with disposable tips. The reusable types are not amenable to sharpening and are not very durable.
b) Gold-plated Curettes: These were recommended initially. However, gold plating can be easily removed, resulting in an instrument contraindicated for implants. Therefore they should not be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner or sharpened. These have been superseded by titanium instruments.
c) Titanium Instruments: Universal and Gracey curettes made of titanium alloy are available. These are effective and can be autoclaved. These are the instruments of choice, though currently very expensive.
d) Ultrasonic scaler: Its use around an implant is also controversial with varying views about their use with conventional tips. Many manufactures have introduced ultrasonic scaler tips which have a stainless steel core with plastic sheaths. The plastic (PEEK) used for this sheath is highly heat resistant and can be autoclaved.