Dental handpieces, often called dental drills, are essential tools used by dentists for a variety of procedures. They are designed to perform high-speed and low-speed drilling, grinding, polishing, and cutting of teeth and bone. Dental handpieces come in different types, each serving specific purposes based on the needs of a particular dental procedure. Here are some common types of dental handpieces: High-Speed Handpieces These operate at high rotations per minute (RPM), usually around 250,000 to 420,000 RPM, and are primarily used for cutting hard tooth structure, removing decay, or shaping fillings. They require a coolant, often water spray, to prevent overheating. Low-Speed Handpieces Low-speed handpieces run at lower RPMs, typically below 40,000. They are used for polishing, finishing, and refining procedures where precision is key but high speed isn’t necessary, such as cleaning or polishing teeth and finishing dental restorations. Electric Handpieces Unlike air-driven handpieces, electric handpieces are powered by an electric motor and provide more consistent torque, making them suitable for procedures requiring greater precision and control. Surgical Handpieces Surgical handpieces are specialized for oral surgery, designed to cut bone or perform precision work in complex areas. They usually work at lower speeds to enhance control and prevent overheating. Prophy Handpieces Primarily used for polishing during professional dental cleaning, prophy handpieces operate at low speeds and are typically used with polishing cups or brushes. Each handpiece type has a specific design tailored for ergonomic handling, durability, and sterilization, making them vital tools for delivering high-quality dental care.