In dentistry, each tool serves a specific purpose, but few have such a direct impact on the patient experience and practitioner comfort as the dental chair. Much more than just a seat, this piece of equipment is the epicentre of the practice, defining the efficiency of procedures and the patient's perception of the clinic and the treatment received.
From the creation of the first dental chair in 1790 to the present day, its evolution has been remarkable, incorporating advanced technology and ergonomic designs that optimise both the dentist's practice and the patient's well-being. Whether for a routine consultation or a complex procedure, the dental chair must be comfortable, functional and adaptable to a variety of needs.
Today, these chairs are not only manufactured with state-of-the-art materials, but also incorporate innovations that facilitate complex procedures. The evolution continues with the incorporation of technologies such as augmented reality and biometric sensors, allowing dentists to monitor patient health in real time and improve each treatment. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about dental chairs to ensure that your clinic has the best in technology and comfort.
Take a look at the best-selling dental chairs:
What is a dental chair?
The dental chair is an essential piece of equipment in any dental surgery. It is a sophisticated medical device designed to ensure patient comfort and facilitate an optimal posture for the dentist. Its ergonomic design aims to meet the needs of both the patient and the professional, allowing adequate visualisation and access to the oral cavity during procedures. In addition, it has an adjustable system that allows its height, tilt and position to be modified, adapting to the specific requirements of each treatment.
What are the main parts of a dental chair?
To better understand how it works, it is important to know its components:
- Base and structure: This is the lower part of the chair, responsible for providing stability.
- Seat and backrest: Designed for patient comfort, they are usually padded and adjustable.
- Headrest: Allows the patient's head to be positioned in a suitable posture.
- Armrests: Provide support and comfort during treatment.
- Control pedal: Allows the position of the chair to be adjusted manually or electrically.
- Supply unit: Includes water, air and suction systems, essential for dental work.
- Dental lamp: Illuminates the patient's oral cavity with white, shadow-free light.
- Instrument tray: Space where the tools needed for the procedure are placed.
- Wash basin: Allows the patient to rinse during treatment.
- Hoses: These are the flexible tubes that connect the dental unit to the rotary instruments and accessories (turbine, micromotor, triple syringe, ultrasonic devices, etc.), supplying the air, water and power needed for their operation.
- Hummingbird (European type): in this system, the hoses are placed on top of the tray and rest on retractable arms that follow the movement of each instrument. Its design is intended to keep the working environment cleaner and more organised, preventing the hoses from falling on the patient or touching the floor. In addition, when working with an assistant, coordination is more comfortable and agile, as the instruments always return to their initial position in an orderly manner.
- Hanging (American type): in this case, the hoses hang down from the tray. This offers greater freedom of movement to the dentist, who can pick up the handpieces more directly and quickly. This design is highly valued by those who work without an assistant, as it allows easy access to instruments without the need for another person to organise them or return them to their place.
- Integrated Instruments: Most dental chairs incorporate a series of instruments essential for daily clinical practice, including:
- High-speed turbine for rapid preparations and cutting of hard tissues.
- Micromotor with contra-angle or straight handpiece for low-speed work, polishing, and prosthetics.
- Triple syringe (air/water/spray), essential for cleaning, drying, and cooling during treatment.
- Ultrasonic scaler for prophylaxis and calculus removal.
- LED curing light for curing composite resins and light-cured materials.
There are two types of hose arrangements:
Technological Innovations in Modern Dental Chairs
Dental units have evolved significantly, incorporating technologies that improve the experience for both the patient and the professional. Below, we explore the most innovative features of modern models:
- Digital Controls: Many modern dental chairs include digital control systems, such as touchscreens or remote controls, which allow for precise position adjustments and the saving of customized settings for each treatment.
- Integrated LED Lighting: High-intensity, adjustable white light optimizes visibility in the oral cavity, allowing for greater precision during procedures.
- Quiet and Precise Motors: Equipped with ultra-quiet electric or hydraulic motors, modern dental chairs ensure smooth and precise adjustments, improving patient comfort and reducing distractions for the dentist.
- Integration with Auxiliary Equipment: Designed for more efficient work, these units include trays, rotating cuspidors, and connections for dental instruments such as turbines, micromotors, and handpieces.
- Personalized Ergonomics: They incorporate adjustable headrests and anatomical supports that adapt to each patient, improving comfort and facilitating the professional's work.
- Memory Functions: Some models allow you to store specific position configurations, streamlining preparation for recurring treatments.
- Built-in Hygiene Systems: The integration of automatic disinfection systems ensures the cleanliness of the ducts and accessories, meeting the most demanding hygiene standards.
- Digital Connectivity and Diagnostics: Some units are connected to digital systems that offer real-time diagnostics and synchronization with management software for more precise control of patient data.
Thanks to these advancements, modern dental chairs not only optimize efficiency in the practice, but also raise the level of comfort and safety for both patients and professionals.
Types of Dental Chairs
Not all dental chairs are the same. There are different models adapted to the needs of each professional, depending on the type of practice and the treatments to be performed. Below, we tell you about the main types of chairs and their characteristics:
Electric Chairs
Electric chairs represent the quintessential modern option in dental offices. They use electricity to make automatic adjustments to the position of the seat, backrest, footrest, and other components, facilitating ergonomics for both the patient and the professional.
One of its great advantages is the possibility of integrating advanced functions, such as digital controls, position memories, and precise movements. However, it is important to clarify that not all electric chairs work the same internally, since this term encompasses two large subcategories that differ in their movement mechanism.
- Electromechanical Dental Chair
- Electro-pneumatic Chair
This specific type of dental chair uses electric motors to control all its movements, such as raising and lowering the chair, adjusting the backrest, and the cuspidor. Thanks to this advanced system, precise and smooth adjustments are achieved, guaranteeing a comfortable and efficient experience for both the patient and the dentist.
Among the positive aspects of this type of chair are the smoothness and precision of its movements, which are quiet and highly efficient. By eliminating the need for an air compressor, its operation is more autonomous and reliable, and the greater durability of its advanced mechanical components contributes to a longer lifespan for the equipment.
However, disadvantages include the need for more frequent maintenance of the electrical system due to the complexity of the electronic components. Its cost is usually higher compared to models such as electro-pneumatic chairs. This type of chair is ideal for clinics that prioritize advanced technology, precision, and a highly comfortable patient experience.
This model combines electrical controls with an internal pneumatic system, using compressed air to power both the chair's movements and the dental instruments. The combination of electrical technology with pneumatic reliability offers an ideal balance, providing an efficient and comfortable experience for both the patient and the practitioner.
Among the benefits of the electro-pneumatic dental chair are its low energy consumption and reduced use of electronic components, which decreases the possibility of electrical failures. Its maintenance is simple and inexpensive, making it an attractive option for clinics with limited budgets or those that prioritize long-term operational reliability.
As for its limitations, it relies on an air compressor, which can cause problems if not properly maintained. Although the movements are smooth, the precision of the adjustments is generally lower than that of electromechanical models. Despite this, the electro-pneumatic dental chair remains an excellent option for clinics that value reliability, low maintenance, and a good cost-benefit ratio.
Important: If you are offered an electric chair, be sure to ask if it is truly electromechanical or if it only uses electricity for functions such as lights or controls, maintaining a pneumatic movement system.
Hydraulic Chairs
Hydraulic chairs use a oil pressure or hydraulic fluid system to smoothly adjust the height, tilt, and position of the chair. This mechanism, composed of a piston and pump, ensures stable and quiet movement, without the typical noises of electric motors.
Unlike electric models, hydraulic chairs do not require electricity to move, making them simpler and with fewer components. Although they require less maintenance, their adjustment precision can be somewhat limited.
Portable Chairs
These chairs are characterized by their functionality and adaptability, being lightweight, foldable, and easy to move. Although they lack the complexity of fixed models, their design makes them ideal for scenarios where portability and space optimization are crucial. They are especially useful in mobile clinics, rural dental brigades, or emergencies, where ease of assembly and transport is essential.
Thanks to their practical design, they can be quickly set up in almost any environment, providing basic comfort to both the patient and the dentist. Their low weight and folding capability simplify storage and transport, making them an excellent solution for providing care outside the conventional dental office.
Pediatric Chairs
Children's dental chairs are specially designed to ensure comfort and safety for our youngest patients. They are not only sized to suit their anatomy, but also incorporate visual elements that create a friendly and relaxing environment. With vibrant colors, fun designs, and attractive shapes, these models capture children's attention, helping to reduce the fear and anxiety common in the dental office.
In addition to their visual appeal, these chairs are equipped with ergonomic features that promote proper posture during treatment, which is essential for ensuring the child's comfort. Their design also facilitates the dentist's access to all areas of the mouth, optimizing the efficiency and speed of procedures.
Because they are specifically designed for young children, they contribute to making the dental experience more positive and less stressful, promoting cooperation and fostering a relaxed attitude towards visits to the dentist.
How to know what type of dental chair you need?
To choose the ideal dental unit, it's important to analyze both its features and the specific needs of your practice. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Specialty of practice: Analyze the treatments you perform most frequently. If you primarily treat children, a pediatric dental chair would be ideal. For more complex procedures, a model with precise adjustments and advanced technology might be necessary.
- Patient support and adaptation: Padding, ergonomics, and adjustability are essential to reduce patient fatigue during prolonged procedures.
- Ergonomics for the dentist: A proper design allows the professional to maintain correct posture and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems.
- Available space: Consider the size and layout of the office. A small space might require a more compact model or even a portable chair, while a large office allows for more sophisticated chairs with additional accessories.
- Features and technology: Evaluate whether you need features such as electronic controls, integrated lighting systems, or specific accessories. These details can optimize your workflow and improve the patient experience.
- Durability and Materials: Ensure the materials are durable, easy to disinfect, and suitable for constant use. This will guarantee a long-lasting investment and simple maintenance.
- Compatibility with Other Equipment: It is important that the chair is compatible with the instruments used in daily practice, such as suction systems and handpieces.
- Budget: Consider that a higher-quality chair can offer better performance and long-term benefits.
- Maintenance and Technical Service: It should have a warranty and be easy to maintain to avoid operational problems.
Choosing the ideal dental chair can make a big difference in your daily practice, and with so many options available, there's always a model that perfectly suits the specific needs of each practice.
Are you ready to modernize your clinic with the best dental chair?
At Dentaltix, we know how important it is to have reliable, high-quality tools for your dental practice. That's why we offer a wide range of products where you'll find everything you need for your clinic, including dental chairs.
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