The Suprasson P-Max (piezoelectric) Ultrasonic Scaler has been designed by its manufacturer for scaling, endodontic, and periodontal treatment. It is equipped to deliver both dental unit water and sterile water/solutions for irrigation. The metal-bodied unit is compact and features a detachable handpiece constructed of autoclavable plastic, titanium, and steel. The P-Max allows for sterile irrigation via an external pump and disposable irrigation lines. The irrigation line is fed from a sterile source and is routed through the Steripump on the back of the unit. The Steripump is a cassette-style peristaltic pump that provides full flow rate control and unidirectional flow of irrigation fluids. From the pump, the irrigation line travels externally to the Sterijoint, which is a connector located between the detachable handpiece and handpiece cord. This autoclavable piece ensures the sterility of the solution delivered through the handpiece to the patient's mouth. Dental unit water is fed through the rear of the ultrasonic unit and is transported within the handpiece hose for scaling when sterile water is not required. Because the P-Max is indicated for scaling, endodontic, and periodontic use, there are a variety of specialized tips available for each application. The tips screw onto the handpiece and moderately tightened with a corresponding wrench that is supplied with the unit. The control panel features an on/off switch, power adjustment knob, pump/stop/solenoid selector switch with indicator, spray adjustment knob, and range selection membrane touch pad with lighted indicators. A dual-switch foot control is used to provide three functions. The right switch triggers the ultrasonic action of the unit. The left switch activates the maximum pump flow that is set from the control panel. Simultaneous action of both switches yields both ultrasonic action and irrigation. The unit measures 2.8 inches high by 10 inches long by 6.64 inches wide and has a shipping weight of 9.5 pounds. The Suprasson P-Max Ultrasonic Scaler is configured for 85 to 264 volts, 50/60 Hz, and is CE marked.
The delivery of sterile irrigating solution to the working field was found to be the primary benefit of this unit. Endodontic providers liked the P-Max because of its light weight, portability, and overall effectiveness. The clinical evaluators also found the unit easy to clean and maintain. The unit uses disposable tubing for sterile delivery, eliminating possible waterline contamination, the handpiece is autoclavable, and the touchpad is sealed for ease of disinfection.
The unit tested did not have a hospital grade safety plug and the foot control was not sealed from liquids. Evaluators found the unit to be underpowered for peridontal use. Changing of the ultrasonic tips and files was determined to be labor intensive, especially during patient treatment. The operation, installation, and maintenance manuals lacked detailed schematics and were difficult to follow.
This review has been adapted from the DECS website. The DECS has no formal association with Dentalcompare or with vendors listed on dentalcompare.com. The DECS does not specifically endorse any particular product or vendor and is provided for informational purposes only.
