Handpiece Attachments

Combined with a quality slow speed motor, handpiece attachments can provide a multitude of combinations to ensure the user can obtain the comfort and versatility necessary to perform each preparation with precision. Most slow speed motors are vane type ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The correct handpiece attachment can provide higher or lower bur speeds by varying the gear arrangement, similar to an automobile transmission. This greatly increases the range of use from a given slow speed motor. Please see the following examples:
 
Example #1:  a 20,000 rpm motor with a 1 to 1 nosecone
                    and doriot type prophy angle used by a
                    Hygienist to apply paste might get a little
                    messy. The same motor with a 4 to 1
                    reduction nosecone would slow the speed to
                    approximately 5,000 rpm which would be
                    more appropriate for paste application.
 
Example #2: The same 20,000 rpm motor with a 64 to 1
                    reduction nosecone could provide enough
                    torque to be used in implant dentistry
                    applications.
 
Example #3: Some modern brushless electric dental
                    handpiece motors operate at approximately
                    30,000 rpm. These are sometimes used with a
                    1 to 7 speed increasing contra angle and a
                    friction grip type head capable of handling
                    speeds above 200,000 rpm. This results in a
                    semi-highspeed handpiece capable of
                    replacing the highspeed air driven handpieces
                    for doctors willing to learn to use them.
                    Lower speed, constant torque, and a little
                    extra weight steepen the learning curve a bit.
                    Entry prices are high, but reduced repair
                    costs should pay dividends over time.
 
A-dec, Kavo, Star, and Midwest provide many great choices for motors, nosecones, contra angles, and heads. With a little due diligence, dentists should find something that matches their needs as combinations are seemingly endless. For those cost conscious consumers, many after market attachments are now available at very reasonable prices. Look for nosecones and contra angles which advertise the use of bearings and quality bushings to ensure long life. Warranties on these will typically rival that of the original manufacturer. Try to stick with ball bearing type heads rated at 30,000 rpm or better to ensure extended life and hassle free use. When necessary, bearings can be replaced by repair technicians as opposed to replacing with new.
 
Many companies are seeking to expand your choices. Athena, Johnson Promident, Microtech, MTI, and Nakamura, make very quality generic handpiece attachments including: nosecones, contra angles, and heads to fit most major brands.
 
Necessity may be the father of invention, but its competition that ensures technological advance. After market, or generic, components help to keep the big boys honest and hard at work, churning out newer and better products designed to make your job easier, and the competition scramble. Free enterprise at it’s best, helping to create advances in the tools you use.
 
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