Handpiece Safety Flashcards
How fast does the bur rotate?
240,000 - 360,000 rpm
What happens to the components of the bur over time?
They wear down, affecting handpiece performance
Who’s obligation is it to ensure the handpiece is fit for practice?
The dentist’s
What percentage of handpieces are found to be faulty after clinical use?
6%
What are the different types of handpiece safety checks?
Safe for Use
Fit for Use
What are the safe for use handpiece checks
Ensure the backcap cannot rotate
Pull the bur to ensure it’s fully engaged
Fit handpiece to coupling and apply tension to ensure device is secured
What are the fit for use handpiece checks
Check bur spins freely
Check burs lateral movement
Check dental handpiece performance
How should the backcap be inspected?
Pinch outer rim of device head and apply anticlockwise rotational force
If backcap can be rotated, send for repair
How should handpiece performance be checked
Run device for 5 seconds and ensure:
It sounds right
Bur doesn’t wobble
