Dental tools and equipment are constantly evolving and have made significant progress over the last few decades, enabling more comfortable and effective treatments. In this article, we discuss how electric handpiece tools improve dental precision.
How Electric Handpieces Improve Dental Precision
Electric handpieces improve dental precision in several ways:
Consistent Speed and Torque
Electric handpieces maintain consistent speed and torque. In comparison, air-driven handpieces depend on air pressure, which can fluctuate based on load and compressor performance. When resistance increases, for example, when cutting through dense enamel or restorative materials, air handpieces tend to slow down.
Electric handpieces, by contrast, maintain a constant speed regardless of pressure applied. This allows for precise work ranging from high-speed tooth decay removal to slow-speed polishing, reducing the risk of chatter, uneven surfaces, or accidental gouging.
Additionally, electric handpieces have a wide range of adjustable speeds that can be controlled digitally or via a foot pedal. This allows your dentist to select the exact revolutions per minute (RPM) required for each step of a procedure.
Reduced Vibration and Noise
The motors in electric handpiece tools minimize vibration, enabling your dentist to perform more delicate work. In comparison, air-driven tools can cause significant vibration, which may compromise fine motor control over long procedures.
Reduced vibration improves hand stability and accuracy. Additionally, quieter tools allow the dentist to focus better on the procedure and the patient to feel more relaxed.
Improved Visibility
Many electric handpieces have LED lights that deliver bright, shadow-free illumination directly to the working area. Clear visibility of the treatment site allows your dentist to better distinguish between enamel, dentin, and restorative materials, which is valuable when working on fine details.
Reduced Operator Fatigue
Electric handpiece tools cut more efficiently, requiring less pressure from your dentist. This allows the doctor to maintain a lighter grip and a more relaxed posture. Reduced strain in the hand and wrist helps preserve fine motor control throughout the day, particularly during lengthy or complex procedures.
Greater Procedural Predictability
Consistent performance, combined with precise control over speed and torque, allows dentists to develop repeatable techniques and achieve predictable results in every procedure.
What Procedures Use Electric Handpiece Tools
Electric handpiece tools are versatile and commonly used in the following procedures:
- Cavity preparation and restorative dentistry: high-speed attachments allow precise removal of decayed enamel and dentin, while slower speeds enable shaping of crown margins or cavity walls without overcutting. Additionally, electric handpieces are used to finish and smooth composite or ceramic restorations.
- Endodontic procedures: controlled cutting of enamel and dentin ensures proper canal access, while endodontic files allow efficient cleaning and shaping of root canals.
- Prosthetic dentistry: electric handpieces enable accurate reduction of tooth structure, ensuring proper fit of crowns and veneers, and symmetrical shaping of multiple teeth for a bridge
- Oral surgery: sectioning teeth or removing bone during complex extractions is more controlled with electric tools, reduces bone trauma, and promotes better healing.
- Orthodontic treatments: slow-speed attachments of electric tools enable bracket removal without damaging enamel, while precise enamel filing between teeth can improve alignment and fit of braces.
- Pediatric dentistry: the precision of electric handpieces allows for the preservation of as much healthy enamel as possible, while quieter motors make procedures less stressful for children.
- Cosmetic dentistry also uses the benefits of electric tools, such as controlled enamel removal for bonding and dental veneers.
Make an Appointment at Dental Care of Chino Hills
Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Dental Care of Chino Hills today. At our dental office, we use modern tools and techniques to deliver reliable and long-lasting oral health improvements to every patient. We are looking forward to your visit.