Ultrasonic Scaler
An ultrasonic scaler removes calculus and biofilm using high-frequency vibrations — a key tool for treating periodontal disease and maintaining gum health.
Category: Dental Equipment & Materials
Modern dentistry runs on a long inventory of instruments, materials, and consumables — and the language is dense. This section of the Rebrief Dental Glossary defines the equipment a dental operatory uses every day, plus the restorative and impression materials that go in patients’ mouths. On the equipment side: handpieces (high-speed, low-speed), articulators, autoclaves, biological sterilization indicators, ultrasonic scalers, and the burs (carbide, diamond) and polishing instruments that finish a restoration. On the materials side: amalgam, composite resin, glass ionomer, calcium hydroxide liners, alginate and polyvinyl siloxane impression materials, lithium disilicate ceramic, and the cements (polycarboxylate, dual-cure resin, temporary) that lute indirect restorations. We also cover digital workflow tools — 3D dental printing, CAD/CAM, intraoral scanners — and the consumables (acid etching gel, dental dam, retraction cord, matrix systems) that make routine procedures predictable. Each entry explains what the item is, what it’s used for, the clinical context where it matters, and links to related procedures and conditions. This is the longest subcategory in the glossary because the inventory is genuinely large. Use the search to jump straight to a term, or browse alphabetically below.
Temporary Cement
Temporary cement holds dental crowns and provisionals securely while allowing easy removal. Learn types, clinical uses, and selection guidelines.
Virtual Articulator
A virtual articulator simulates jaw movements digitally, helping clinicians analyze occlusion and design accurate restorations without physical models.
Tooth Shade Guide
A tooth shade guide helps dentists match restoration colors to natural teeth. Learn how shade selection works and why it matters for crowns and veneers.
Sectional Matrix Band
Sectional matrix bands rebuild proximal walls for Class II restorations. Learn how they work, their components, and why placement technique matters.
Universal Curette
A universal curette is a versatile periodontal instrument designed to remove subgingival calculus from any tooth surface — essential for scaling and root planing.
Ultrasonic (Dental)
Ultrasonic dental instruments use high-frequency vibrations to remove calculus and biofilm, making them essential for scaling and periodontal therapy.
Temporary Crown
A temporary crown protects a prepared tooth while a permanent restoration is crafted. Learn its purpose, materials, and care tips for the best outcome.
Rubber Dam Clamp
Rubber dam clamp: the spring-loaded device that anchors the dental dam to a tooth for dry isolation during root canal and restorative procedures.
Smart Dental Devices
Smart dental devices use AI, sensors, and connectivity to advance oral diagnostics, monitoring, and patient care — learn how they’re transforming dentistry.