While much of a dentist’s time involves the use of high and slow speed mechanical handpieces and that of a hygienist involves ultrasonic scalers, manual instruments still play a large role in modern dentistry. These are usually made from stainless steel which, over time and with use, become blunt, worn and ineffective. Instruments become dulled by repeated contact with enamel and amalgams, which are harder substances than instruments.
All instruments used for scaling should be sharpened, except those with tungsten carbide tips, which do not need sharpening. Conservation instruments also need sharpening; these include chisels, excavators, hatchets, gingival margin trimmers and carvers.
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