Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Ellen Kaganer, Miller Street Dental, Cammeray, NSW
This is a slow-speed handpiece often referred to as the red-band handpiece. It’s lightweight with a compact head and provides excellent results.
What’s good about it
Even though it’s a slow-speed handpiece and can be used with or without water, it’s used with high-speed burs. It cuts accurately and smoothly without water and, as it’s a slow speed, it produces little heat. It’s the perfect tool to complete prep work with veneers, crowns, bridges or any restoration work. I like that it allows you to control the margins and nicely finish all the prep.
This is an excellent handpiece for any procedure that requires greater care and precision. Even though it’s a lightweight tool, there’s enough bulk to give it balance and a good feel in your hand. Vibration is minimal, as you’re using a high-speed bur. Fine-grade diamond burs can be used to get a nice smooth finish or cutting diamond burs will do the job efficiently.
I’ve been a dentist for 45 years and in all honesty, a handpiece is a handpiece. Still, I think this is a well-priced, efficient tool that does the job well. Ultimately, it makes the job easier, neater and more accurate.
What’s not so good
It’s a slow-speed handpiece so it cuts slowly. You need to exercise a bit of patience when using it so if time is a critical issue, it may not be for you.
