The most common question asked about dental bearings.

Ceramic bearings, lube free turbines, or good ole stainless steel?  We get this question all the time, so lets clear the air now.

First of all, let’s give props to Dentalez for introducing ceramic bearings to the dental industry with the Star 430 which we often refer to as the Toyota Camry of the dental industry due to its innovative style and ability to last.

While ceramic bearings certainly have unmatched anti friction characteristics, there is still no substitution for a periodic flush to remove debris from inside handpiece head. The problem is, and will continue to be, baked on debris which enters head. Debris enters when rheostat is released, and the slight negative pressure created draws debris up the bur shaft and into the head.

All dental bearings need to be periodically flushed.

Ceramic, tungsten, stainless steel, titanium, uranium, kryptonite – it doesn’t matter. Damage to dental bearings will take place if too much debris is allowed to remain in handpiece head.

Another point to consider is that some manufacturers tend to warranty the lube type turbines a bit longer. That, in and of itself, would indicate that they expect turbines to last longer when you lubricate them, regardless of materials.

Now for the good news about dental bearings.

If you love your lube free handpieces and dred the mess of daily handpiece care and maintenance, just remember – Clean is better. Clean the outside of the handpiece and give it a flush with your preferred lubrication product about once a week. The flush comes in when you return to your unit and run handpiece until debris is removed.

Dental bearings are delicate precision components.

Whether you prefer the lube free ceramic dental bearings, or those which require daily lubrication, there is maintenance involved to ensure handpiece and turbine longevity. Dental bearings are precision components which last much longer given the extra care.