An Ultrasonic Tooth Cleaner is designed to remove dental plaque and tartar from teeth, using sonic vibrations to break up deposits on teeth and water to clear away debris. This new and improved way of cleaning a patients teeth is being implemented by dentists across the world, saving both time and minimising discomfort for the patient.
In this article, we will answer some of your pressing questions about ultrasonic teeth cleaners including :
- What exactly is an ultrasonic tooth cleaner?
- Are ultrasonic tooth cleaners safe?
- How do ultrasonic tooth cleaners work?
- What's the best ultrasonic tooth cleaner in the UK?
We will also take you through some ultrasonic tooth cleaner reviews and helps you find the most efficient and safest way to maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
If you're short on time, have a look at the following table for our top picks for an ultrasonic tooth cleaner:
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Table of contents
What is an ultrasonic tooth cleaner?
An ultrasonic dental cleaner is an electric or battery-powered device that cleans plaque and tartar from teeth using water and sonic vibrations. It looks a little like a dentist's dental tool used for scraping plaque from teeth, however, it doesn't require a scraping action like traditional dental tools.
Instead, it uses electromagnetic force that causes the tip to vibrate. The resulting ultrasonic vibrations then break apart and remove the plaque and calculus that has built up on your teeth. Additionally, a small stream of water comes out of the tip and helps blast away additional buildup while washing away the debris.
Studies have shown that an ultrasonic tooth cleaner can successfully remove plaque and reduce gum infection, but research is limited due to how recent the technology is.
What happens at the dentist
Recently, dentists started using this ultrasonic technology in their practices since it's much faster than traditional dental scaling, taking only 1/3 of the usual time.
On top of that, it is a much more comfortable process, as the flow of the water stream and the vibration frequency can be adjusted to relieve any discomfort or sensitivity the patient feels.
Although the traditional deep clean or dental scaling doesn't necessarily hurt, the pressure and force used by the dentist can be uncomfortable, causing patients to avoid this important cleaning treatment.
Dentists may also have special tips designed to clean porcelain crowns and titanium implants. Enquire at your dentist's office what ultrasonic technology options they have available.
Using an ultrasonic tooth cleaner at home
Some ultrasonic dental cleaners are available for home use, however, a bit of controversy surrounds whether or not patients can use them on their own.
The main objection is that removing tartar properly and safely from teeth requires special training that only dental hygienists have. Others argue that when appropriately used, a quality ultrasonic tooth cleaner can help you keep up your oral hygiene and health in between dental visits.
To use an ultrasonic cleaner at home, always carefully follow the instructions that come with the device. In general, they will more or less include the following steps:
- Fill the reservoir with water (only water requiring models)
- Turn the cleaner on
- Gently and slowly move the tip along your gum line
- Stay bent over the sink to avoid a messy process
You must personally decide whether you are willing to accept the risks associated with ultrasonic technology at home.
*Please note that we do not recommend scraping your teeth at home. If you do it wrong, you could scrape off your enamel, causing irreversible damage to your teeth.
Are Ultrasonic Tooth Cleaners safe for home use?
At-home ultrasonic tooth cleaners do come with potential risks due to the lack of professional guidance. Misuse can lead to damage, increased tooth sensitivity, or gum irritation. Quality also varies among ultrasonic tooth cleaners available in the UK, and overuse may exacerbate existing dental conditions. Our team at Dentaly.org recommend that you consult with a dentist before using these devices to ensure that safe and effective oral care is provided for your individual circumstances.
Ultrasonic tooth cleaner UK reviews
The not-so-good review
The first review is from a man in the UK who ordered his ultrasonic tooth cleaner for £15 from Groupon. He bought his while in COVID-19 lockdown and couldn't get in to see the dentist. His chosen model doesn't work with water, just the vibrations.
After testing the model, he concludes that he thinks it's ‘rubbish.' He doesn't recommend it and says that you are better off using a water flosser and seeing the dental hygienist for a cleaning.
Watch his review video below to find out why he feels this way.
The safety concern review
The following ultrasonic tooth cleaner review warns against scaling your teeth with an at-home ultrasonic cleaner.
According to John, the ones you can buy differ from the ones the dentist uses. He also comments that in addition to damaging your gums and tongue, DIY dental scalers can scratch enamel, crowns, and veneers.
At-home scalers don't use water, so they can heat up quickly and end up damaging your teeth. They are also not as sterile as the ones used in a dentist's office. This exposes your mouth to many types of bacteria, which could lead to greater dental health problems.
John's view of at-home ultrasonic tooth cleaners is that they are dangerous and can ultimately damage your teeth more. It's much better to go to your dental clinic and get a scale and polish from your dentist or hygienist.
What is the best ultrasonic tooth cleaner in the UK?
There are currently not many ultrasonic tooth cleaners on the UK market, as this technology is relatively new. We've narrowed down the options for you to the best ultrasonic tooth cleaners you can order from Amazon.
ZoCCee Cleaning and Whitening Tool
The ZoCCee Cleaning and Whitening Tool is a versatile dental tool that offers an effective solution to maintaining a healthy and sparkling smile. This tool is designed to cater to different dental needs with its 5 adjustable modes and 2 tip heads.
Its easy-to-use switch and mode buttons make it simple to operate, and a detailed manual is included to guide users.
One of the features that make this home dental cleaner stand out is its rechargeable built-in 1500mAh battery that provides a long runtime on a single charge. This eliminates the need for frequent recharging or the need to replace batteries.
The dental tool also comes with a built-in LED light that illuminates the oral cavity, making it easier to spot plaque and remove stains effectively. This feature ensures thorough oral care, especially for hard-to-reach areas.
The ZoCCee Cleaning and Whitening Tool is a great investment for maintaining perfect oral hygiene. It is suitable for home use and on-the-go dental care.
This ultrasonic tooth cleaner features 5 cleaning modes to fit your every need:
- Soft
- Normal
- Middle
- Strong
- Super strong
The following reviewer found it was very effective in removing stains:
“I bought this expecting little from it, and don't get me wrong I don't now have a Hollywood smile but it has definitely reduced stains and has worked very well in getting in between my teeth and I now feel like I can smile confidently again which is great. I definitely recommend.”
Amazon customer review
*Please note that we do not recommend scraping your teeth at home. If you do it wrong, you could scrape off your enamel, causing irreversible damage to your teeth.
Hangsun Plaque Remover for Teeth
The cutting-edge design of the Hangsun Plaque Remover utilises ultrasonic vibrations, which are activated only when in contact with the teeth. Additionally, the device automatically ceases vibrating upon contact with soft tissue such as gums, ensuring a gentle and safe experience.
Experience peace and quiet during use, thanks to the device's minimal noise output. Moreover, the gentle vibrations of this device are ergonomically designed to prevent any discomfort or hand fatigue.
The device boasts five modes, ranging from soft to super strong, catering to your unique dental needs. Additionally, this device is waterproof, allowing for convenient use in the shower, making it a practical addition to your dental care routine.
TANAVE Plaque Remover Kit
The TANAVE Plaque Remover is an all-in-one dental tool designed to cater to your various cleaning needs. This advanced dental cleaning tool comes with 5 adjustable modes and 4 replaceable tip heads, providing a customisable cleaning experience that is tailored to your specific dental requirements.
Each of the 4 cleaning tip heads serves a unique purpose and helps solve different teeth problems and remove various stains. This diversity ensures that you can achieve a comprehensive dental cleaning experience with just one tool.
The high-quality stainless steel heads and slip-resistant silicone handle of the TANAVE Plaque Remover Kit ensure safe and easy use, while the bonus oral mirror provides a clear view of the teeth. Additionally, an auxiliary LED light illuminates the oral cavity, making it easier to spot and clean hard-to-reach areas.
The TANAVE Plaque Remover boasts a long-lasting, built-in rechargeable battery that eliminates the need for frequent charging or battery replacements. With an intuitive 2-button layout that simplifies operation, this dental cleaning tool is easy to use. One button turns it on, while the other is for mode switching. The cleaning head is detachable and washable, making it easy to maintain cleanliness after each use.
The following reviewer seems extremely pleased with this model plaque cleaner:
“Needed to polish my teeth as they were staining and decided to try this rather than pay a fortune for a visit to a private dentist. Honestly, I was shocked with how easy and how noticeable the difference was after even five minutes of use. Stains disappear and it also works at removing an plaque build up between the teeth. This will save me a fortune!”
Amazon customer review
Conclusion
Ultrasonic tooth cleaners form part of the newest dental technology, designed to remove dental plaque and tartar from teeth using sonic vibrations to break up deposits on teeth and water to clear away debris.
Many — especially dental professionals — say that only trained dental hygienists should remove tartar from your teeth with dental tools, and do not recommend the use of ultrasonic tooth cleaners at home. If used incorrectly, these devices can cause more damage to your teeth and introduce foreign bacteria to your mouth.
If you however decide to use an ultrasonic tooth cleaner at home, choose one with plenty of positive reviews from real customers. It's also a good idea to consult your dentist beforehand and ask them if this is something that would benefit you.
We've narrowed down some of the best ultrasonic tooth cleaners that you can find on the UK market, namely the ZoCCee Cleaning and Whitening Tool, Hangsun Plaque Remover for Teeth and the TANAVE Plaque Remover Kit.
Most importantly, remember that these aren't meant to replace professional dental cleanings, and the best thing you can do for your dental health is to brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once per day, and visit your dentist regularly.
FAQs
Can ultrasonic cleaning damage teeth?
Ultrasonic cleaning can damage teeth if the device isn't used correctly. If you get ultrasonic cleaning done at the dentist, you have nothing to worry about, but take caution if using a cleaner at home.
Do dentists recommend ultrasonic cleaners?
Dentists typically only recommend ultrasonic cleaners for use in the dental office with a trained dental hygienist. Your dentist may recommend using one at home, in between cleanings, as long as it is a good reputable model.
Ask your dentist before you buy an ultrasonic cleaner — they may instead recommend that you increase your visits for professional cleaning. Or they may give you tips for better oral hygiene at home.
Does ultrasonic teeth cleaning hurt?
This method for cleaning teeth is supposed to be gentler than traditional manual scrapers. Patients should feel little to no discomfort, and the time it takes to clean teeth is significantly reduced.
How does ultrasonic dental cleaning work?
Ultrasonic tooth cleaners use gentle vibrating technology to break down plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. They typically work with a small stream of water that removes additional plaque and debris.
NIH. Dental Plaque Removal by Ultrasonic Toothbrushes. Consulted 1st August 2022.