The handpiece in dentistry is one of the most crucial devices. It can be utilised as a tool for proficiency and ease in everything from minute alterations to routine activities. As technology progresses, so does this essential component: from primitive origins to contemporary precision equipment capable of executing even the most complex processes with reasonable ease.
The handpieces in dentistry make dental treatment more expedient for patients while also reducing the time it takes to finish operations. These are the high-speed as well as low-speed dental devices that are utilised in performing several dental operations involving tooth decay treatment and tooth polishing. Dental supplies are also utilised to contour the teeth before a filling or crown is placed on a tooth.
Handpiece in Dentistry:
Dentists, hygiene specialists, and lab workers all use dental handpieces nowadays. A handpiece is almost always necessary when doing normal prophylaxis or more difficult periodontal, surgical, and remedial procedures.
But what is the purpose of a dental handpiece? You must have noticed a pen-shaped tool connected to the chair, and the dentist uses it for cleaning the teeth. Well, a dental handpiece is not just for cleaning purposes but has a variety of other functions;
- It works by removing dental plaque from the surface of your teeth.
- It is used to eliminate the damaged part of the tooth to prevent further decay.
- It helps in preparing the tooth for various dental treatments such as fillings and crown implantation.
- The tooth needs to be reshaped before the root canal therapy, and a dental handpiece helps in preparing the tooth.
- A variety of drills can be connected to the head of dental handpieces for trimming, cleansing, and polishing teeth.
The handpieces in dentistry are split into several classifications, and even within those groups, pieces can be structured in a variety of ways. Entire systems with their own pieces are included in the fundamental specifications for each handpiece element. The following are examples:
Handpiece with High-Speed (Air-Turbine)
A high-speed handpiece is a precise tool for effectively and rapidly removing tooth tissue with gentle contact, warmth, or vibration. Although it is very convenient to cut teeth with an air turbine handpiece, it requires utmost caution. These devices have various features, and some of them are weight, head size, low motor noise, fibre optics light, etc.
Handpiece with Slow-Speed
The dental prophy cup of a low-speed dental handpiece rotates at the speed of around 50,000 RPM. It is generally air-driven or electronic. They’re employed in endodontic treatments like root canal treatments to remove cavities and refine cavity procedures. The dental bur attachment, air/water injectors, construction material, and inclination design of this handpiece differ by brand.
Electrical Handpieces:
Electric dental handpiece devices are time-saving and accuracy-improving contra-angle equipment. Air-driven accuracy is very necessary to operate in tight areas of the mouth, but the electric handpiece’s specialised torque makes the task effortless. Electric handpieces are also available in a variety of styles, giving you more options that are even pocket-friendly.
Surgical Instruments
Most dentists around the world use a surgical air-driven handpiece to make sure that the oral treatments are secure. It is very important to keep the air from gushing into the oral cavity during the surgery; therefore, surgical instruments assist during such operations.
Endodontics Handpieces:
Endodontics handpieces are the primary dental tools used in canal treatment. In most circumstances, these devices can operate endodontic files with accuracy, eliminating file fracture or stiffness. These handpieces work with your selected operatory devices for accuracy, whether they’re reciprocating or rotating.
Handpieces for Implants
The implant handpieces were created with orthodontics in mind. They are extremely durable due to the best quality stainless steel and unique coating.
Air-Powered vs Electric
Your dental handpieces are powered in one of two ways. It might be done with air turbines or by becoming electric. A rotating turbine propelled by pressurised air generates rotation in air-driven dental handpieces. This kind has a variable torque and can achieve speeds of up to 400,000 rpm. However, electric dental handpieces employ an electric motor to propel the head and can be regarded as a complete system in and of themselves.
Conclusion:
High-speed alternatives are frequently utilised for tooth preparation, whereas low-speed alternatives are better for completing and cleaning implants. Once you know how this device will work in your specialised dental practice, it’s essential to get a feeling of how well it feels in your hands: weight balance, head size durability, and other factors all play a role in determining whether or not that particular piece will meet your needs.
