Forza+ X5: Constant Torque for the Win

There’s a place for air-driven and electric handpieces in dentistry, but for Dr. Lisa Ference, who owns Clifton Dental Arts in Clifton, NJ, there is only one way to go.

“The switch from air-driven to electric handpieces is beneficial in many ways,” she said. “Adapting to the weight change and balance is rapid and effortless, and the flexibility of being able to change speed and torque based on the procedure is a bonus. The noise reduction helps decrease hearing damage, and patients are also happier with that change. Plus, the cutting efficiency and consistent torque make removing old crowns much easier.”

Put simply, she added, “I would never go back.”

Compact Head, Smooth Cutting

Dr. Ference has been using Brasseler electric handpieces for over a decade, with 3 or 4 models currently circulating between her operatories. She recently took Brasseler's new Forza+ X5 1:5 speed-increasing electric handpiece for a spin and found it to be a “quality” addition to the Forza family. The handpiece reaches speeds up to 200,000 rpm and has an improved chucking mechanism built to keep torque steady throughout preparation.

“The constant torque is most noticeable when cutting off old crowns,” she explained. “The handpiece doesn't stall or jump the way I find air-driven handpieces to. I find myself using less pressure and getting smoother cuts.”

Overall, Dr. Ference appreciated features like the adjustable water spray, which allows clinicians to fine-tune and adjust the spray direction and mist for optimal cooling and visibility. She also lauded the Forza+ X5’s compact head size and length, which she said did not create any visibility or access issues.

Well-Balanced in the Hand

Further improving access is the handpiece’s 100°-angled head and cellular glass optics. The Forza+ X5 is also made of lightweight titanium with ceramic bearings and an optimized gear structure, which support smooth, low-vibration operation.

Dr. Ference said some motors and handpieces she's used in the past weren't as well-balanced—so much so that she moved her old motor to an unused operatory to collect dust. "I felt I was developing problems in my wrist and hand," she explained. "With the newer handpieces, I haven't found that to be the case any longer, which is why I use the Brasseler system exclusively." Although the Forza+ X5 is just slightly heavier than her Forza M5, which is the lightest attachment on the market, Dr. Ference said its even weight distribution keeps it well-balanced in her hands.

DPS evaluator Dr. Janice Darko, who started practicing about 3 years ago, also appreciated how the Forza+ X5 felt in her hand during procedures. “It was easy to operate with stronger power and an improved adjustable water spray,” she shared. “It’s also not heavy at all, and it has low vibration. Because of its ease of use and efficiency, I spent less time chairside since I didn't have to stop to adjust anything."

In fact, Dr. Darko said all her restorative work was made easier using the Forza+ X5, praising the handpiece’s “excellent” cutting efficiency. “I would recommend it to any dentist who likes to get restorative work done on time and efficiently,” she added.