Air-Driven Handpieces: Control in Dental Procedures

Air-Driven Handpieces: Control in Dental Procedures

Air-driven handpieces have been a mainstay in dental practices for decades, valued for their balance of precision, affordability, and ease of use. These tools are vital for performing a wide range of procedures, from routine cleanings to complex restorations.

Whether you’re equipping a new practice or upgrading existing tools, there are several factors to consider to when choosing the best handpieces for your needs. In this article, we’ll examine how air-driven handpieces work and discuss how they differ from electric handpieces. We will discuss their key features and their maintenance requirements. We will also share the features and benefits of DENTALEZ’s Star handpieces.

How Air-Driven Handpieces Work

Air-driven handpieces rely on compressed air from a dental office’s air compressor to power a turbine, which spins the bur at speeds of up to 430,000 RPM. The operator presses the rheostat pedal to control the speed of the turbine. The speed naturally decreases when the bur contacts the tooth, allowing the operator to control the level of pressure on the tooth. This process is often referred to as “feathering.” 

Unlike electric handpieces, which use a motor to maintain a consistent speed, air-driven models adjust dynamically. This responsiveness can be a major advantage for delicate work. However, the reverse spin or “suck back” effect—caused when the turbine slows down—requires attention to proper cleaning and lubrication to prevent debris buildup in the chuck​.

Advantages of Air-Driven Handpieces

Air-driven handpieces remain popular due to their versatility and familiarity among dental professionals. Key advantages include:

• Flexibility. With air-driven handpieces, the dentist can adjust the speed using the pedal, and the bur slows down when it contacts the tooth. With electric models, the speed is set at a constant rate, and the bur does not slow down when it touches the tooth.
• Lightweight design. Air-driven models are generally lighter than electric options, reducing fatigue during long procedures.
• Cost effectiveness. Electric handpieces require the attachment of a motor to the dental chair. Electric models are generally more expensive to repair than their air-driven counterparts.
• Adaptability. Smaller head sizes in air-driven handpieces enhance access to tight spaces, although this varies by model.
• Proven reliability. Trusted for decades, air-driven handpieces have a track record of durability and effective performance​.

High-Speed vs. Low-Speed Handpieces

Dental practices rely on both high-speed and low-speed handpieces, depending on the procedure. High-speed tools, such as air-driven models, excel in cutting and shaping teeth quickly, while low-speed handpieces are better suited for polishing and detailed work. 

For more details on high-speed and low-speed handpieces, check out our detailed guide.

Lubricated vs. LubeFree Models

Lubricated air-driven handpieces require regular lubrication, a step many practices already integrate into their routines. Lubricated models often come with longer warranties, making them an appealing choice for those comfortable with ongoing maintenance.

LubeFree air-driven handpieces eliminate the need for lubrication but require consistent adherence to their specific cleaning protocols. When a LubeFree handpiece is lubricated once, it must be lubricated for the remainder of its lifespan​. For this reason, it is important to educate staff members on the lubrication needs of each of the practice’s handpieces to ensure proper care. 

For more information on maintaining your handpieces, read our guides  on dental handpiece lubrication and handpiece turbines​.

Key Considerations When Purchasing

With so many air-driven handpieces on the market, it’s important to keep several factors in mind to make the most appropriate purchase for your practice.

1. Power and torque. Higher torque models are ideal for demanding procedures. When shopping for a new handpiece, look for a tool that provides ample cutting power without sacrificing control.
2. Head size and maneuverability. Smaller heads improve access to hard-to-reach areas, although larger heads offer more torque for certain tasks.
3. Compatibility. Some new handpieces work in conjunction with a practice’s existing couplers and other equipment.
4. Lubrication needs. When choosing between lubricated and LubeFree handpieces, practices should consider their specific workflows and preferences, along with cost and warranty implications of each model. 
5. Ease of turbine replacement. Consider whether the handpiece needs to be sent out for turbine repairs or if replacements can be done in-office. Models with replaceable turbines save time and reduce operational disruptions. 
6. Ergonomics. Lightweight designs minimize operator fatigue, enhancing comfort during long procedures.
7. Cost and warranty. Balancing upfront costs with long-term reliability and warranty terms is an important consideration when comparing air-driven handpieces.

Star Products: Reliable Solutions for Every Practice

Star offers a variety of high-speed, air driven dental handpieces tailored to meet the needs of diverse practices. All of our handpieces allow for simple in-office turbine replacements.

• The Star 500 Elite with Aeras Intel delivers 39 watts of cutting power, making it capable of handling high-strength ceramics with performance comparable to electric handpieces while maintaining the responsiveness of air-driven models. It also features RFID technology for advanced tracking and recordkeeping.
• The Star 400 Flex with Aeras Intel is designed for compatibility with the KaVo MULTIFlex™ coupler, offering the industry’s maximum cutting power supported by MULTIFlex and a lightweight design.
• The 430 Torque is a high-speed handpiece with 27 watts of power to provide speed and precision in drilling and cutting. Its ergonomic, lightweight design and small head size allow for easy navigation and all-day comfort.
• The 430 Series is a versatile collection of high-speed handpieces designed to let dentists customize their tools by selecting features that suit their workflow. Known for their quiet operation, reliable power, and durable design, these handpieces are available with options like swivel or fixed back-end configurations and a 45-degree angled head for specialized procedures.

Learn more about Star handpieces here. 

Air-driven handpieces continue to be a trusted choice for dental professionals. Their lightweight design, affordability, and proven reliability make them a practical option for a variety of procedures. By carefully considering maintenance needs, compatibility, and performance features, you can invest in tools that benefit both your practice and your patients.

To learn more about our air-driven handpieces, contact a Dental Solutions & Technology (DSX) representative today.