Dental handpieces – often referred to as “drills” – are an essential tool in all dental practices. A wide assortment of dental professionals, hygienists, oral health specialists, and lab technicians utilize these specially-designed equipment pieces in order to aid in optimizing the oral health of patients all around the world. It does not matter if it is a standard prophy appointment or a comprehensive surgical treatment is being conducted, dental handpieces are utilized. In this basic guide, we will outline the unique differences between the high-speed dental handpiece and the low-speed dental handpiece.

What is a High-Speed Dental Handpiece?

A high-speed dental handpiece is considered to be a device of precision. It removes tooth tissue in a fast and highly efficient manner. It does not result in heat, pressure increases, or vibrations. These are available in a wide assortment of shapes, sizes, and general construction. Operation occurs at 250,000 to 400,000 RPMs. Varying features lend to their distinguishment.

Examples of these features include the type of head attachment, the size of the head, the source of light, the weight of the piece, and the noise of the motor when in operation. These are typically utilized for polishing the teeth and the actual shaping of crowns and fillings.

What is a Low-Speed Dental Handpiece?

Low-speed handpieces are also considered to be precision tools for dental practitioners and specialists. These typically operate at a rate of 5,000 to 40,000 RPMs. Water circulation is not necessary as the low-speed versions do not operate at such a level that they create high levels of heat. In most instances, these are utilized for heavy jobs.

Examples include removing cavities from the mouth and preparing teeth for the addition of crowns, veneers, and/or fillings. These are ideal tools for orthodontic procedures and restorative work.

Due to the low operating speed, these dental handpieces tend to have a longer lifespan than that of the high-speed dental handpieces. This is because of the lesser amount of strain on the mechanical aspects of the device.