As we all know what an AC multiplier and a turbine are, in this new article we wanted to tell you why this first instrument is increasingly replacing the turbine and what it's real benefits really are. Keep an eye out, we have some interesting content!
Knowing that the turbine and the contra-angle handpiece are two of the most important rotary instruments in your daily activity, we wanted to expand and offer you useful information that will make your treatments much more practical, such as: do they both have the same lifetime? Why is the CA multiplier changing the dental sector? We'll tell you all about it below.
What are the main differences between an AC multiplier and a turbine?
Both instruments have in common their use in the preparation of hard tooth substance and denture materials. They do so in an air-driven manner, depending on the requirements of ergonomics and efficiency, yet they have notable differences:
- The dental turbines are air-driven. Compared to an AC multiplier, they are lighter, do not need any additional electric motor, and do not need any controllers.
- The turbine is driven by a small rotor and therefore its power is limited. It is not possible to adjust its speed.
- The high-frequency noise of the turbine is annoying and sometimes very unpleasant for patients.
- The turbine can cause high heating of the tooth and therefore the tooth wears faster.
- The contra angle multipliers can be adjusted in a range of 10,000 to 200,000 rpm, which results in better cutting and finishing precision. They can also be used in treatments where an additional turbine and AC on air drives would have been necessary.
- The Contra angle multiplier offers a constant and adjustable speed, plus the noise is much lower than that of the turbine, so it is not as bothersome.
- This AC must be driven by a electric motor, making it a little heavier than an air-driven dental turbine.
Below is a comparison table between the turbine and the contra-angle so that you can visually compare the main differences:
What about the types of connections of a Contra Angle Multiplier?
The contra angle is connected to a micromotor, and this in turn to the hose. Therefore, in order to know the type of connection required, it is advisable to know the type of micromotor to be used:
- Electric micromotor: in this case they need a special hose, exclusive to a specific brand or model, which is connected to the control unit from where the dentist can modify the parameters according to the requirements of the treatment to be carried out.
- A pneumatic micromotor: is the most economical option and for this type of micromotor there are three possible connections: Midwest (this system incorporates four ways in which the water enters and leaves the instrument), Borden 2 and Borden 3 (the Borden system, on the other hand, has only two ways).
Why does the AC multiplier replace the turbine nowadays?
We now recognise that contra-angle handpieces are preferred by many dentists due to all their advantages, however, in recent months, after the Covid-19 situation, there has been an insistence on increasingly favouring this instrument as it generates less aerosol than a turbine, in order to avoid any possible infections in the clinic.
Another remarkable fact is the noise and vibration: the multiplying counter angles are much quieter than turbines. On the one hand, their design is comfortable and allows distraction-free treatments. They can be disinfected and are completely sterilisable, which extends their useful life and they are less likely to get damaged compared to turbines. On the other hand, their speed is constant and adaptable and can be multiplied by a factor of five.
Can the AC multiplier perform all the treatments that are carried out with the turbine?
As you know, the turbine is widely used for core grinding and crown placement, as well as for preparing cavities with diamond burs, but thanks to the electric actuators of contra-angles and handpieces including multiplier contra-angles, they can be used as an alternative to turbines. Therefore, with both drive systems it is possible to cover all speed ranges required for the treatment. Therefore, the answer is yes, always taking into account the differences mentioned above, always evaluating what best suits your requirements.
Do they have the same service life?Which products should you use for the correct maintenance?
Yes, the turbine and the contra angle multiplier have the same service life if they are properly cared for day after day. Both instruments are subjected to high demands due to their treatment, hygiene and care processes. They consist of many materials that must be cleaned and cared for thoroughly on a daily basis, and they need proper lubrication to prevent and avoid wear and tear. A good cleaning will provide a longer life for your instruments, take good care of them!.
What are the necessary products for their maintenance? We'll tell you: Spraynet for cleaning, Lubrifluid or proper lubrication and Aquacare or cleaning irrigation tubes.
Do all contra angle multipliers come with a light?
In this case, the answer is no. Depending on the model or brand, CA multipliers can come with or without LED light. In addition, they are very easy to identify due to the red ring they carry.
PRICE RANGE: Is a contra angle multiplier more expensive than a turbine?
As with most products, the prices of both instruments vary according to materials, manufacturers and functionality For example, the price of turbines is around 100-500€, while a counter angle varies from 500 to 1,000€ depending on the model. High-end ACs are around €1,000 and offer maximum speed, perfect illumination, ceramic bearings, very small head sizes for hard-to-reach areas and long warranty plans. But if you decide to buy a more economical AC, you can find some that are very good value for money and meet all the requirements that treatments may require.
Common points of multiplying ACs
Comparing ACs from different brands such as Bien Air, NSK, W&H, Technoflux or Sirona, we found several points in common that these instruments will always have, despite the fact that they are from different manufacturers:
- Ergonomics: they all fit excellently in the hand and are designed to make treatment as comfortable as possible for the dentist. Very lightweight.
- Weight: an average of 90 grams.
- Maximum speed: 200,000 rpm.
- Fabrication materials: stainless steel.
As you can see, there are many benefits when it comes to treatment if we end up going for a AC multiplier instead of a turbine, which is why we want to know your opinion: do you prefer turbine or AC? If you have used the AC instead of the turbine what did you think? We would be delighted to receive your comments! We can also help you if you have any questions about this post.
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