It's About Time: A Technique for Sharpening Scalers and Curettes

Introduction

• Technique developed by Sherry Burns
• Uses the "clock face" visual imagery method
• Focus on restoring sharp cutting edges while preserving blade shape

Importance of Sharpening

• Sharp instruments ensure effective deposit removal
• Dull instruments require more pressure and strokes, leading to fatigue and inefficiency
• Benefits: improved calculus removal, reduced fatigue, improved tactile sensitivity, minimized patient discomfort

Types of Sharpening Stones

Arkansas Stones

• Natural, fine grit
• Requires mineral oil for lubrication
• Ideal for light recontouring and regular maintenance

India Stones (I Stones)

• Synthetic, available in various grits
• Used for reconditioning worn instruments
• Can be lubricated with water or oil

Ceramic Stones

• No lubrication needed, used dry or with water
• Available in single or dual grit
• Used for reconditioning and light maintenance

Sharpening Basics

Key Elements

• Instrument design and grasp
• Stone grasp
• Assessment of sharpness
• Proper work area setup

Instrument Design

• Handle, shank, and working end
• Terminal shank crucial during sharpening

Instrument and Stone Grasp

• Instrument in non-dominant hand, blade at bottom, toe towards user
• Stone grasp stabilizes vertical motion

Work Area Setup

• Flat surface, good lighting, loops or magnification
• Necessary tools: stone, lubricant, gauze, test stick

Assessing Sharpness

• Visual Inspection: look for light reflection
• Plastic Test Stick: sharp blade bites the stick

Sharpening Techniques

Sickle Scalers

• Two cutting edges, sharpen from heel to tip
• Align terminal shank at 12 o'clock
• Right-handed: tilt stone to 3 minutes past 12 o'clock
• Use cylindrical stone to finish edges

Universal Curettes

• Two parallel cutting edges with rounded toe
• Align terminal shank at 12 o'clock
• Sharpen from heel to toe, maintain rounded toe

Gracie Curettes

• One functional edge, slanted facial surface(70 degrees tilt is present)
• Sharpen from heel to toe without rotating the stone
• Maintain the original blade design

Tips for Effective Sharpening

• Secure instrument grasp
• Use appropriate stone grit
• Correct testing technique to avoid dulling the blade
• Practice improves skill and efficiency

By consistently practicing this method, dental clinicians can maintain sharp scalars and curettes, thereby enhancing their clinical performance and reducing fatigue.