Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Daehoon Kang, Treat Dental, Bacchus March, VIC
We replaced our air-driven handpieces with this electric model and the improvement has been measurable. They are fast, efficient and allow for very accurate work.
What’s good about it
The main benefit for me is the constant torque and cutting power. If you press an air-driven handpiece hard enough, the torque becomes unsteady and the RPM slows. The electric version, on the other hand, continues to function at a constant speed no matter how hard you push it. This makes tooth preparation a lot more enjoyable and efficient. It’s a very consistent, reliable tool.
The particular handpieces we have feel more durable and fit ergonomically in the hand while giving good access to the entire mouth. The RPM can be easily changed and set to suit different procedures. At a lower RPM it gives good tactile feedback, allowing for improved control and precision. Burs can be switched in and out easily. No air turbine also means there is a lower risk of causing an air embolism.
We’ve had these electric handpieces for about 18 months and have completely phased out of air driven handpieces. Moving from air-driven to electric was definitely an upgrade. A game changer for me, for sure.
What’s not so good
Electric handpieces generally tend to cost more than air turbine handpieces. If you’re used to an air-driven handpiece, there will also be a bit of a learning curve to switch to an electric version as it handles differently.
