Lowspeed handpieces are a critical component of any dental practice. These handpieces are used for a wide variety of tasks, from polishing and finishing restorations to removing caries and preparing teeth for procedures. Lowspeed handpieces are available in a range of sizes, shapes, and designs, and they can be powered by compressed air, electricity, or a combination of both.Â
Types of Lowspeed Handpieces:
There are several types of lowspeed handpieces available, each with its own unique features and benefits. The most common types of lowspeed handpieces include straight, contra-angle, and prophy handpieces.
Straight Handpieces
Straight handpieces are the most basic type of lowspeed handpiece. They consist of a straight, cylindrical handpiece that is typically used for finishing and polishing restorations. Straight handpieces are also useful for removing caries and preparing teeth for procedures.
Contra - Angle Handpieces
Contra-angle handpieces are more versatile than straight handpieces. They have a 90-degree angle between the shaft and the head, which allows them to access hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Contra-angle handpieces can be used for a wide range of procedures, from preparing teeth for fillings to removing old fillings and preparing teeth for crowns.
Prophy Handpieces
Prophy handpieces are used specifically for polishing teeth. They have a short, angled head that is designed to hold a prophy cup, which is used to apply polishing paste to the teeth. Prophy handpieces are typically used after scaling and root planing procedures to remove any remaining stains from the teeth.
Uses of Lowspeed Handpieces:
Lowspeed handpieces are used for a wide range of procedures in dental practices. Some of the most common uses of lowspeed handpieces include:
Removing caries: Lowspeed handpieces are used to remove decayed material from teeth. This process is often referred to as “drilling,” although modern handpieces are much quieter and less invasive than older models.
Preparing teeth for fillings: Before a filling can be placed, the tooth must be prepared. Lowspeed handpieces are used to remove any decayed material and shape the tooth so that the filling can be placed correctly.
Preparing teeth for crowns: Crowns are used to restore teeth that are severely damaged or decayed. Lowspeed handpieces are used to shape the tooth so that the crown can be placed correctly.
Polishing restorations: After a restoration has been placed, lowspeed handpieces are used to polish the restoration to ensure that it looks and feels natural.
Polishing teeth: Prophy handpieces are used to polish teeth and remove any stains that remain after scaling and root planing procedures.
Benefits of Lowspeed Handpieces
There are several benefits to using low-speed handpieces in dental practice. Some of the most notable benefits include:
Increased precision: Low-speed handpieces provide precise control over the speed and movement of the instrument, which allows for greater precision and accuracy during dental procedures.
Reduced heat and vibration: Low-speed handpieces produce less heat and vibration than high-speed handpieces, which helps to reduce patient discomfort during procedures.
Versatility: Low-speed handpieces can be used for a wide range of dental procedures, from polishing and contouring to cutting and shaping.
Durability: Low-speed handpieces are typically made from high-quality materials and are designed to be long-lasting and durable, which helps to reduce the need for frequent replacements and repairs.
Improved patient outcomes: By using low-speed handpieces, dentists and dental hygienists can achieve better patient outcomes, with improved restoration aesthetics, reduced sensitivity, and increased longevity of dental restorations.
Choosing the Right Lowspeed Handpiece
When selecting a low-speed handpiece, there are several factors to consider, including the intended use, speed range, and compatibility with existing dental equipment. It is also important to consider the ergonomics of the instrument, as well as the maintenance and repair requirements.
Low-speed handpieces are an essential tool for any dental practice, providing precise control, reduced heat and vibration, and improved patient outcomes. With a range of types and features available, it is important to carefully consider the intended use and compatibility with existing equipment when selecting a low-speed handpiece. By choosing a high-quality, durable instrument, dental professionals can provide optimal care for their patients, with improved restoration aesthetics and increased longevity of dental restorations.
