Performance and Durability of Autoclavable High-Speed Dental Handpieces.

摘要

Ten handpiece models were evaluated and compared under clinical conditions at the Branch Dental Clinic, Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, IL. Handpieces were assigned to dentists in a randomized sequence. Dentists used each model for one week and subjectively evaluated its performance by completing a questionnaire. The handpieces were cleaned and lubricated according to the manufacturer's instructions and sterilized by steam autoclave following each use. A detailed record was kept for each handpiece, documenting the number of sterilization cycles and specific problems noted. Data were analyzed to demonstrate the comparative durability and operating performance of each model. The rating of handpiece performance is a complex task, subject to many limitations and caveats as discussed in this report. It is not possible to reduce these variables to a simple yet accurate forecast of serviceable longevity. On the basis of our findings, however, we concluded that the following handpiece models are acceptable for Navy use: KaVo 632, Midwest Quiet-air, Midwest Tradition (or Tradition-L). We also concluded that, with current infection control practices, an average cost-life expectancy for dental handpieces in the Navy would be three years.