IADR Abstract Archives
Noise Values from Electric and Air-turbine Handpieces
Electric handpieces are slowly replacing air-turbine handpieces in dental practice. Lower noise levels are often cited as an advantage of these newer handpieces. Objectives: To compare sound amplitude generated by electric and air-turbine handpieces at two different locations. Methods: An anechoic test-chamber was used to record sound levels of air-turbine and electric high-speeds from seven manufactures using a Precision Integrating Sound meter (Bruel & Krueger). Three handpieces were tested from each manufacturer. Each handpiece was run at maximum speed (electric handpieces with 1:5 attachment and air-turbines at manufacturers' maximum recommended air pressure.) 30s after starting the average sound level (dBA) was recorded over 1 min. The noise probe was placed 0.45m away from the head of the air-turbine, and the motor of the electric handpiece. Noise levels were recorded at two locations, in line (0º) with the handpiece and at a 45º angle. No cutting was performed and no water was used with either system. Data was analyzed using a t-test (p = 0.05) Results: Average noise levels (dbA) values (mean ± SD, n=3).
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In-line |
At 45º |
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ELECTRIC |
AIR-TURBINE |
ELECTRIC |
AIR-TURBINE |
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Bien Air |
53.3 ± 0.1 |
63.1 ± 4.1 |
55.1 ± 0.0 |
58.4 ± 5.0 |
|
Kavo |
51.2 ± 0.1 |
59.8 ± 3.7 |
52.3 ± 0.1 |
56.3 ± 3.1 |
|
Lares |
53.5 ± 0.4 |
59.6 ± 1.6 |
52.9 ± 0.3 |
58.4 ± 1.3 |
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Midwest |
59.1 ± 0.9 |
65.9 ± 3.1 |
59.2 ± 0.4 |
61.4 ± 1.5 |
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NSK |
56.8 ± 0.1 |
64.6 ± 3.7 |
55.2 ± 0.3 |
61.7 ± 0.9 |
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Sirona |
56.8 ± 0.9 |
65.7 ± 4.0 |
52.7 ± 0.2 |
59.4 ± 1.0 |
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Star |
56.6 ± 0.3 |
70.1 ± 8.8 |
57.9 ± 0.3 |
69.0 ± 8.8 |
Conclusion: Electric handpieces recorded statistically-significant lower noise levels when compared to air-turbine handpieces. There was no statistically-significant difference between groups at the different locations. Supported by the ADA.