Dr. David A. Chenin discusses a handpiece that is beneficial to the orthodontic practice
The story behind this one-of-a-kind patent-pending Air-Free handpiece is very interesting. It actually originated from the needs of practicing orthodontists. As an exhibitor of many orthodontic conferences over the years, Medidenta had consistent inquiries about surgical handpieces. Medidenta soon found out that doctors were looking for a handpiece that did not blow air on the working site, which is a source of sensitivity. This sensitivity in traditional handpieces is especially true in orthodontics where the teeth are not anesthetized, have enlarged PDLs, and are more cold-air reactive with sensitivity caused by recent ortho-dontic tooth movement. Although I have used 45-degree angled surgical handpieces to reduce the cold air being expelled on the teeth, I found them very cumbersome.
This was a great opportunity for someone to develop a better solution for my orthodontic needs. Finally, Medidenta came through and created a 90-degree handpiece that did NOT expel air from the head of the handpiece. Instead, the air is directed out of the rear of the handpiece away from the patient. Thus, the Air-Free 90 degree has quickly become the hottest item ever sold by Medidenta.
While the main benefit is almost no sensitivity to the patient, another benefit is less adhesive flash powder being blown all over and around the patient because it can be suctioned away much more easily. It’s also important to note that the handpiece is built rock solid and generates an ultra-smooth high-speed polishing action. As a result, vibrations on the tooth surface are eliminated, making for a more comfortable experience when compared to generic handpieces.
Significant timesaving has been seen during my braces removal appointments because of fewer pauses due to sensitivity issues. This 20-watt titanium-coated handpiece has benefits not only in orthodontics, but can also be applied for uses in pediatrics, periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, and general dentistry.
David A. Chenin, DDS, MSD, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a member of the Schulman Study Group, and an Adjunct Orthodontic Faculty Member at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. He can be reached at DrDave@CheninOrtho.com.
Disclosure: Dr. Chenin is a beta-test doctor for Medidenta and received no compensation for this article.
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