When magnetostrictive ultrasonic instrumentation is used, the function of the water that circulates through the handpiece and exits as a spray at the working end is which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The water that flows through the instrument cools the transducer and working tip. The tip generates frictional heat that needs to be cooled. In a piezoelectric unit cooling is not needed; however, water is used for all the other advantages. The water does not lubricate, and the instrument itself needs no lubrication. The water flow does reduce bleeding; however, it does not stop bleeding. Acoustic microstreaming is the term that describes the potential to destroy or disrupt bacteria by agitation in the fluids that surround the rapidly vibrating ultrasonic tip. It is a byproduct of the water that is needed to cool the system. The water does not remove calculus or biofilm per se; the mechanical energy at the working end does.

When Magnetostrictive Ultrasonic Instrumentation Is Used, the Function of the Water