What instrument is classified as an ultrasonic cleaner?

An ultrasonic cleaner is defined as a piece of equipment that uses high-frequency vibrations to create microscopic bubbles in a cleaning solution. These bubbles implode or "collapse," producing a scrubbing action that effectively cleans instruments and surfaces. This cleaning mechanism is particularly useful in dental practices where sterilization and effective cleaning of tools are vital to maintaining hygiene standards.

The other options highlight different instruments or tools used in dental procedures but do not fit the definition of an ultrasonic cleaner. For instance, devices that polish teeth or tools used for scaling tartar serve specific purposes in patient care but do not engage in the ultrasonic cleaning process. Similarly, a hand-held tool for extracting teeth is designed for a completely different function, focusing on tooth removal rather than cleaning. Therefore, the correct classification of an ultrasonic cleaner focuses on its unique ability to harness high-frequency vibrations for cleaning purposes.