Upgrade Your Small Equipment for a BIG Success
The small equipment in your practice deserves just as much attention as larger equipment and technologies. Upgrading outdated small tools and devices can drastically improve your treatment workflows and patient care, while increasing your practice's marketability.
While investing in technology like CAD/CAM and CBCT imaging is a worthwhile consideration for any practice, it’s also important to keep tools like handpieces, curing lights, and intraoral cameras top of mind. You may not give it much thought, but small equipment makes a big impact on the practice by fueling your day-today preventive, restorative, cosmetic, or endodontic cases.
If you haven’t upgraded your workhorses in a while—say, more than a few years—chances are you’ll find improved versions of each tool that will not only be more intuitive and easier to use, but will also save you chair time and provide a more comfortable experience for your patients.
“Investing in and upgrading your small equipment is key to having a modern dental office, staying ahead of the curve, and giving your patients quality, world-class outcomes,” noted Dr. Yahya Mansour, who believes that upgrading small equipment such as loupes, intraoral cameras, and DSLR cameras can made the biggest difference in the way clinicians practice. “Before making a purchase, I read dental publications to research each new item and ensure that the product is rooted in a foundation of scientific evidence.”
Alan Pressman, DMD, agrees dentists need to “stay with the times” in order to grow their practices. He explained how his latest caries detection device allows him to show patients the same diagnostics that he sees. “A picture paints a thousand words,” said the Spring Valley, NY, clinician. “I no longer have to read something to patients from the machine, so I’m very happy I decided to start using a caries detection device."
Even if you’re still a year or two away from investing in that big-ticket technology item, you can make a significant difference in your level of treatment today by taking a closer look at your everyday tools. Over the next few pages, take a look at the instruments and devices that help you go the extra mile when diagnosing, treating, and providing ongoing care to patients each and every day. Remember: Even the smallest improvements can make the biggest impact.
"Investing in and upgrading your small equipment is key to having a modern dental office."
-Yahya Mansour, DDS, MS, DICOI, FAGD; Fort Worth, TX
Intraoral Cameras
Intraoral cameras are simple to use and produce clear, sharp images that can help patients visualize their oral conditions and your proposed treatment. Many intraoral cameras weigh less than a pound, offer multiple LED lights, and snap photos at a variety of angles.
Modern and sleek, Air Techniques’ CamX Elara can improve patient communication, leading to higher case acceptance and better tracking of treatment. CamX Elara is always in focus from 5mm to 35 mm, and its sturdy, lightweight design fi ts comfortably in the hand, while a unique capture-upon-release feature makes capturing steady, sharp images a breeze.
Lightweight and ergonomic, MouthWatch makes case presentation and treatment proposals easier through chairside intraoral imaging. Designed with a sharp, fi xed focus, MouthWatch does not require manual focusing or autofocus hunting. One quick, lag-free click on the capture button saves intraoral photos straight to the patient’s chart.
SOPROCARE from ACTEON uses autofluorescence and selective chromatic amplification to highlight gingival inflammation and distinguish between old and new dental plaque when in PERIO mode. This multifunctional device was developed to assist professionals during prophylactic and periodontal treatment, and can speed up the time needed to perform thorough exams.
Offering a wide focus range of 1 mm to infinity, CS 1500 from Carestream allows clinicians to easily view the smallest cracks, caries, and lesions. Patented liquid lens technology provides automatic focus, and an 8-LED lighting system can be adjusted to optimize illumination and contrast.
With its capacity to trigger the autofocus system and view the details of any area of the mouth on the screen, HAWK HD with XVLite by Dentazon offers a high resolution (1280 × 720) to produce true-to-life images. Three different capture buttons enable one-handed operation, and a variable focus liquid lens eliminates distortion and ensures crystal- clear images. Its rounded camera head increases comfort for the patient, and its curved design and lightweight construction allow for easy maneuvering for the clinician.
KaVo Kerr’s DEXcam 4 HD offers high-definition imaging combined with innovative acquisition software. It produces immediate visual impact with highly detailed “show-and-tell” photos that remain clear even when enlarged. A precision, 7-element glass optical lens produces exceptional image quality and helps prevent image distortion.
Caries Detection Systems
Early and accurate identification of tooth decay requires a high-tech caries detection system. In addition to patient health benefits, discovering problems early on can lead to minimally invasive treatment for patients down the road.
An intraoral camera and caries detection device in one, SOPROLIFE from ACTEON uses auto-fluorescence technology to detect decay often missed by x-rays, even in its earliest stages. DIAGNOSIS mode has the potential to speed up the decision making process during treatment planning; TREATMENT mode allows dentists to visually differentiate between infected and affected tissue in the excavated site; and DAYLIGHT mode offers in-depth, magnified views.
CamX Spectra by Air Techniques uses 4 violet LEDs to stimulate metabolic by-products found in cariogenic bacteria, causing them to glow red while healthy enamel glows green. Air Techniques also offers CamX Triton HD, which features an ergonomically designed interchangeable head system. Its slim, rounded head provides easy access to even the most challenging posterior areas, and its motion sensor switches the camera on and off, ensuring efficient use every time.
Clinically proven to help dentists find up to 20% more interproximal caries on permanent teeth than traditional methods, Logicon Caries Detector software works exclusively with Carestream’s RVG intraoral sensors. This compatibility helps clinicians visually analyze radiographs and diagnose caries on proximal surfaces. In addition to detecting and monitoring caries, users can track classification and probability changes over time, as well as retrieve information about tooth density changes and lesion probability for each surface.
Compact and portable, DEXIS CariVu from KaVo Kerr uses patented transillumination technology to identify occlusal, interproximal, and recurrent carious lesions and cracks. CariVu images read like familiar x-ray images, and the device allows the clinician to see through the tooth, exposing its structure and the development of carious lesions.
KaVo Kerr’s DIAGNOcam lets you detect interproximal and occlusal caries much earlier than traditional methods through light waves that provide exceptional image quality and detail. Also from KaVo Kerr, the DIAGNOdent Pen uses laser fluorescence technology to distinguish carious tooth structure from clean, healthy tooth structure. Fluorescence is proportionate to the degree of caries, which is shown in elevated scale readings on the device’s display.
Simple to use, Exposé from Centrix is predried on a Benda Micro applicator and touched to a tooth surface to stain the by-products of carious lesions. Available in either red or blue indicator dyes, it is ideal during minimally invasive preps to help preserve healthy enamel and dentin.
Loupes/Headlights
Dental loupes and headlights are making their way into more and more operatories, especially as recent studies find that the leading cause of early retirement among dental clinicians is musculoskeletal disorders. Designed to offer greater visibility and illumination than the overhead light, and with ergonomics to match, the magnification systems below are certainly worth taking a closer look at.
DenMat’s Firefly Cordless Headlight System provides a well-defined and uniform spot with natural light output for easy color matching. In addition to eliminating heavy power backs and annoying cords, it improves visual acuity by removing shadows in the oral cavity. The Firefly system also offers an easy cleaning routine for reduced risk of cross-contamination.
An ideal system for users aiming to increase their magnification power over time, Orascoptic’s OmniOptic accommodates 4 magnification powers ranging from 2.5x to 5.5x. The unique design features a magnetic anchor built into the carrier lens of the frame, allowing clinicians to upgrade their magnification power without having to order a whole new loupe. All of Orascoptic’s optical systems are made with Grade A fine annealed glass lenses that have anti-scratch and anti-reflective coatings.
Slim and lightweight, Micro Line Prism Loupes from SurgiTel provide next-level magnification with a range from 3x to 4.5x. The loupes are extra comfortable to wear and come in front-lens-mounted and through-the-lens options.
EyeMag Smart by ZEISS displays images with impressive color rendering of anatomical structures. With 2.5x magnification, a large field of view, and striking depth of field, clinicians can visualize larger treatment areas.
Isolation Systems
An efficient tool for sequestering a section of the mouth from moisture, a dental isolation system provides clear visibility and access to the area while avoiding sensitive tissues, such as the gums, cheeks, and tongue.
Zirc’s Mr. Thirsty One-Step is an inexpensive and disposable handsfree device that retracts, isolates, and evacuates while keeping patients comfortable.
DryShield combines the tasks of high-suction evacuator, saliva ejector, bite block, tongue shield, and oral pathway protector into one, easy-to-use device. Available with autoclavable or single-use mouthpieces, it is simple to install and helps reduce procedure time.
Isolite 3 from Zyris offers dual quadrant, hands-free suction, improved visibility, brighter illumination in both white light and true noncuring amber light, and oral humidity control. A new smart adapter allows you to keep your existing HVE line. Each Isolite dental isolation system comes with a Liquidmetal Control Base, an LED Smart Stick, 6 Vacuum Light Pipes, a Power Vacuum Hose, a Power Vacuum Base, and a Power Adapter.
Kulzer’s Ivory LinguaGuard features a simple, curved design that slides easily onto an HVE tip for retraction and protection of the tongue during suction. The BPA- and latex-free device, which is disposable, easily retracts without the risk of tissue suck.
LED Curing Lights
High-powered LED curing lights cure faster than the halogen and previous- generation LEDs, while offering wavelengths compatible with most resin materials. The following curing lights offer a host of other intuitive features, such as improved handling and advanced cooling systems.
The VALO Grand curing light from Ultradent uses highly efficient broadband LEDs in the 395 nm to 480 nm range to provide heat dissipation, keeping the wand body cool to the touch. A unique unibody construction and ergonomic design enable the light to easily reach all curing sites without sacrificing patient comfort. VALO Grand Corded has a medical- grade, international power supply and is suitable for power outlets from 100 V to 240 V, while VALO Grand Cordless operates on 2 rechargeable lithium-ion phosphate batteries that deliver consistent high-energy power.
At just 70 g (2.5 oz), including its battery and light guide, VOCO’s Celalux 3 LED curing light features a vibrating indicator at the start and again after 10 seconds and 20 seconds.
Cordless and easy to handle, it has a wavelength range of 450 nm to 480 nm and a slim, pen-shaped design. Ivoclar Vivadent's Bluephase G4 uses Polyvision technology to alert clinicians if they move the curing light probe away from the tooth while curing, and then dynamically adjusts the curing time to compensate for the movement. It offers a broad wavelength spectrum of 385 nm to 515 nm in a slim, lightweight, and ergonomic design.
Dentsply Sirona’s SmartLite Focus is designed to ensure reliable curing all the way to the floor of the proximal box—the most vulnerable interface in a Class II restoration. The SmartLite Focus’ homogeneous beam profile makes it less sensitive to movement during the curing cycle. With a lightweight, 330° head rotation and pen-style design, clinicians can maintain ideal intraoral control during cures.
Demi Plus by KaVo Kerr has an exterior made from Valox resin, a high-performance plastic that protects and extends the life of the unit. Designed with an improved cooling system and multiple curing options, it also has an Extended Turbo Light Guide that enables better application with improved access for posterior procedures.
ACTEON’s MiniLED Supercharged offers power of 2,000 mW/cm2 (with optical guide diameter of 7.5 mm) and up to 3,000 mW/cm2 (with optical guide diameter of 5.5 mm), while providing safe modes for the tooth and the restoration. Its backlit display shows the different customizable modes and times, as well as a countdown for precise polymerization.
GC America offers The Light and The Light 405, each of which has 4 curing modes and is processor controlled for constant light. The Light operates from 440 mm to 490 nm, peaking at 460 nm. The Light 405 functions between 405 nm to 490 nm to meet light needs outside the standard resin material. These curing lights have long-lasting lithium-ion batteries that have no memory effect, can fully charge in 180 minutes, and last for 500 ten-second cycles on high mode.
With beam collimation to maximize curing power in deep preps, DenMat’s Flashlite Magna 4.0 provides more focused and effective curing. Proprietary optics reduce the divergence of the beam to maximize curing power in deep preps. The curing light features a high-quality, powerful LED bulb with an average output of 1,200 mW/cm2, providing rapid curing over the entire beam.
Vista’s Valiant Pink curing light uses a combination of near-infrared and standard blue light to significantly improve the microhardness of composite restorations. All curing lights in Vista's Valiant product line are equipped with a transilluminator for detecting fractures, cracks, and residual caries.
Handpieces
Where would a dental professional be without a reliable handpiece? The low-speed/high torque combination of electric handpieces is ideal for cutting resin and finishing procedures, while high-speed, air-driven tools are an ideal choice during initial prep to reduce soft-tissue damage.
From NSK’s Ti-Max Z family of handpieces, the Z900L offers 26 W of power along with a Quattro Water Spray that cools the surface of the bur, and a Microfilter that prevents particles from entering the water spray system. A push button auto-chuck feature allows for one-touch bur insertion and removal without tools.
KaVo Kerr’s ELECTROmatic Premium is the ultimate all-in-one device, available with 1 or 2 motors for easy prep and an integrated endo function. Preprogrammed file systems and torque-limit control make it simple to plan and customize your endodontic sequence, while up to 5 speed memory presets are available in prep mode.
Dentsply Sirona’s Midwest Tradition Pro has been recently redesigned for a more powerful and quieter cut. Available with Power Lever or Push Button chucking systems and with or without fiber optics, the high-speed handpiece features a small head, ceramic bearings, and an extended 1-year warranty.
Featuring an innovative neck designed for smaller fingers, the Solara QT Series from DENTALEZ offers handpieces that are 20% lighter than the competition, LubeFree ceramic bearings, and a mini head for improved line of sight. Noise-reduction technology and an advanced air-flow design cut pitch by half.
Henry Schein's Maxima ELITE High-Speed Handpieces provide cutting power of 23 W (19 W for the Mini), supported by a patented Power-Boost System. In addition to its durable, all-stainless-steel construction and high-strength forged head, each handpiece features Active Stop Technology that eliminates spin-down time, and Advanced Bearing Technology that reduces wear and extends the life of the handpiece.
A high-speed handpiece that combines performance with user and patient comfort, Bien-Air’s Tornado uses SteadyTorque technology to deliver a power output of 30 W and operate at a 55-decibel sound level. Tornado’s small head offers good posterior access and is ideal for pediatric use, while a Cool Touch feature protects patients against excessive heat.
The Legacy 5 provides state-of-the-art performance, including Lares’ proprietary SilentForce technology, a long-lasting SteelGrip chucking system, and DynamicPrecision balancing for whisper-quiet operation. This highspeed handpiece has an extended, 5-year warranty that eliminates the expense and hassle of handpiece repair.
Each handpiece from SciCan's SANAO line uses a unique resin filling to close the gap between the outer and inner sleeves—a notoriously difficult area to clean. SciCan’s Hygiene Protection System resin helps prevent debris from building up inside the handpiece.
Offering up to 26 W of power, Brasseler's NLXK Premium high-speed air-driven handpiece is designed for maximum durability and performance. Precision manufacturing and enhanced bearing technology improve durability, while a thin neck design enhances visibility. It features a ComfortGrip coating and lightweight titanium construction for improved ergonomics.
All the air involved in Medidenta’s Air-Free 90S is vented through pilot holes located on the back end, which helps to provide an air-free oral cavity with good turbine ventilation and ideal power. It is capable of delivering 20 W of constant torque for consistent cutting power, even under heavy load conditions.
Composite Warmers
When heavily filled composites are warmed, they flow more easily and decrease the need to use a flowable material, especially in posterior restorations. Phasor by Vista is able to heat composite material to 150°F in seconds and maintain that temperature throughout the procedure while remaining cool to the touch. Because Phasor is not limited to a single brand of composite, the device is extremely versatile, not only in quick posterior bulk-fills but also in traditional incremental layering techniques in esthetic regions.
Producing less microleakage and stronger restorations, AdDent’s Calset Multi-Tray warmer can hold and warm 4 extra composites and 2 syringes. In addition to warming the composite gun at a constant temperature, it warms 2 placement instruments to enable easy and precise sculpting of the composite.
Dentazon’s C-Warmer Blue thermostatically controlled cartridge warmer preheats within 1°C of exact body temperature for more comfortable delivery of anesthesia within its operating range of 20°C to 60°C. This composite warmer improves the flow capacities of composites by maintaining constant temperatures.
Digital Sensor Holders
Digital x-rays are essential to accurate diagnostics, so locking down a good digital sensor holder that accurately positions the sensor while ensuring patient comfort is key.
Dentsply Sirona’s XCP-DS FIT universal digital sensor holder gives clinicians the flexibility to create a custom fi t for their specific sensor. The holders fit both size 1 and size 2 sensors, reducing inventory and improving organization, and a self-adjusting clip stretches to fit each sensor.
Featuring unique, autoclavable sensor holders that snap in and out, the Uni-Verse-All Kit from Flow Dental can be used to take anterior or posterior bitewing images. Each sensor holder adjusts automatically to hold any size sensor horizontally or vertically.
Fully autoclavable, ClikRay digital sensor holders from ClikTech exert no damaging pressure on sensors. Offering easy sensor placement, they use a sensible design with no bulky pieces or sharp edges.
Organization
Zirc’s Organizational Box of Efficiency (ZOBE) allows practices to test-drive color-coded organizational tools such as tubs, trays, and racks to see how they create a stress-free work environment. The ZOBE box contains over 30 of Zirc’s top-selling organizational products to help practices easily keep track of instruments and materials—allowing the dental team to speed up procedure setup and patient turnaround time.