Product Evaluation

MEDIDENTA

Air Free 90 Evaluation

By redirecting the air flow from the head to the back of the handpiece, the Air Free 90 eliminates tooth sensitivity and reduces aerosols

Long before coronavirus and pandemic became everyday household words, and before airborne disease transmission was scrutinized on the nightly news, Medidenta was way ahead of the game with its Air Free highspeed handpiece series that was designed specifically to reduce air flow and keep air from venting out the handpiece head. Originally developed to reduce patient sensitivity during orthodontic debonding procedures, the Air Free 90 has found a new niche in restorative dentistry because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the renewed focus on reducing aerosol production in the dental operatory.

In his quest to limit aerosols in his orthodontic practice, Philip Bomeli, DDS, invested in the Air Free 90 highspeed air handpiece and recognized a change immediately. “With the air blowing the other way, it really does limit the aerosols created when I use the highspeed handpiece now,” he said. “Given the COVID-19 situation, anything we can do in the office to limit aerosols is a win, and this product helps immensely in that department.”

Reduced Aerosols

Because the air is vented out the back of the handpiece instead of through the head, air is removed from the treatment site, which eliminates air mixing with water and reduces aerosol formation. “The Air Free 90 handpiece does not blow any air on the tooth,” explained Dr. David Chenin. “As a result, aerosols are reduced in the operatory. Given the COVID-19 outbreak, this product makes it much safer for our team.”

Dr. Joanna Yu said she noticed “a visible reduction in aerosol spread” once she started using the Air Free 90 handpiece, which improved safety for patients and clinicians in her practice. Noting that his practice has purchased several Air Free 90 handpieces, a dental assistant said the handpiece’s rear exhaust feature minimizes aerosol formation, which provides him with peace of mind. “Because of the pandemic, the dental community is looking at this product from a different angle. This handpiece has solved and minimized problems [by reducing aerosols].” Dr. Don Demas added, “The Air Free 90 reduces aerosols, and in this day and age, that is very important.”

Patient Comfort Due to No Air Blowing

Designed so that air does not blow on a patient’s teeth, the Air Free reduces or eliminates air sensitivity and patient discomfort during removal of bonding adhesive or other procedures, according to Medidenta. Dr. Chenin was initially intrigued with the Air Free 90 handpiece because he wanted to reduce sensitivity for his patients when removing the adhesive from their braces or clear aligners. “The braces removal appointment has been one of the toughest appointments because of the tooth sensitivity from removing adhesive,” said Dr. Chenin. “This handpiece eliminates sensitivity and makes the whole experience for the patient much better.”

Dr. Raul Bonet said, “No air is blown into tissues to hurt them,” which is especially helpful during extractions when he needs to cut the roots and “no forced air is introduced to the area.” While Dr. Bomeli didn’t notice a reduction in sensitivity for his patients, dental assistant Esmeralda Payan said, “The way the air comes out is nice for the patient,” and Dr. Richard Shin agreed that the handpiece “removed air blowing out to the patient.” He added, “I am more assured that it won’t hurt sensitive patients! Adult patients who need their cement taken off after orthodontics treatment with sensitivity really appreciate this.”

Ergonomics & Cutting Power

The Air Free 90 delivers 18 watts of constant torque for consistent cutting power even under heavy load conditions, says Medidenta. The patented chuck design works to grip the bur tighter as the RPMs increase to minimize the risk of bur slippage and ensure patient safety. “I like the balance, cutting power, and the rear air exhaust,” said Dr. Bonet, who called it a good product at a good price that saves chair time.

Dr. Demas suggested that the handpiece noise could be reduced, and Dr. Shin said a smaller head and lighter weight would be appreciated. At a weight of 71 grams, the Air Free 90 “is comfortable and light,” according to Payan, and Dr. Yu said that it is light and quiet. The titanium coated stainless steel shell is resistant to scratches, staining, and corrosion, and the ceramic bearings help extend the life of the handpiece, according to Medidenta.

"The Air Free 90 is the single best handpiece in existence."
-David Chenin, DDS
Henderson, NV

Overall Satisfaction

All of the evaluators said they would recommend the Air Free 90 handpiece to colleagues and would purchase another one in the future. Noting that his favorite feature is “the fact that it is air free,” Dr. Demas complimented Medidenta by saying, “The customer service is excellent!” Dr. Chenin said that every day he uses the Air Free 90 is a day that patients are treated much better and have a much better experience. “For all of the above reasons, the Air Free 90 is the single best handpiece in existence,” he concluded.

Takeaways

• Air flow is vented out the back of the handpiece instead of the head
• Because air is not blowing on the teeth, patient sensitivity is reduced
• Air is removed from the treatment site, which eliminates air mixing with water and reduces aerosols
• Aerosol reduction is safer for patients and clinicians
• 18 watts of constant torque delivers consistent cutting power