Comparison between Electric Micromotors and Air Turbines relative to Technical Characteristics, Advantages and Disadvantages / Comparação entre Micromotores Elétricos e Turbinas de Ar em relação às Características Técnicas, Vantagens e Desvantagens

Abstract

At present, in dentistry, procedures such as prophylaxis and tooth preparation are performed with the aid of air turbines or handpieces coupled to micromotors. These micromotors can be driven by electric or pneumatic power sources. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the handpieces coupled to electric micromotors with high speed turbines, relative to their technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. In this study, a literature search was conducted in three databases (Science Direct, PubMed and Capes Periodicals) with the following keywords: “Electric handpieces" and "air turbine”.” Out of a total of 105 articles found, ten scientific articles that compared the two types of equipment were included. In addition, a market survey in Brazil was carried out with five national and international brands, in order to compare technical specifications and cost. The articles showed that there were similar characteristics between the turbine and the electric handpieces, such as the force they exert on the tooth and the temperature at the base of the equipment. Furthermore, although air turbines run a lower revolution per minute (RPM), as regards noise, weight, torque and speed control, electric micromotor showed better results. Regarding the types of equipment sold, on average, the cost of electrical equipment (micromotor and multiplier handpiece) was found to be 1,595.55% higher than that of air turbines. It was concluded that the electric micromotors had some advantages in comparison with turbines, except for their lower maximum speed, and their higher cost.