Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Rewrite the content and keep the original meaning and format, and add 5 more H2, the content is “
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.
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.
Air-driven handpieces remain popular due to their versatility and familiarity among dental professionals. Key advantages include:
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
”