Single-Patient-Use vs Multiple-Patient-Use Dental Burs

Categories: Infection Prevention

Author(s): Keith Cyrus Keller, DMD

Course Type: Self-instruction journal and web based activity

Target Audience: Dental Assistants, Dental Hygienist, Dentists from novice to advanced

Educational Objectives

After completing this course, the reader should be able to:

• Discuss the history of dental burs and handpieces

• List the pros and cons of single-patient-use and multiple-patient-use armamentarium

• Analyze dental bur cost, efficiency, and infection control.

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Abstract

Dental armamentarium has evolved since the first tool-assisted manipulation of teeth thousands of years ago. In the modern era, discussion continues as to which tools will provide the best outcomes for patients and dental providers. One significant debate, especially in light of the heightened awareness of infection control, pits dental burs that are single-patient-use vs multiple-patient-use. Important considerations include overhead costs, cutting efficiency, and infection control. Manufacturing of dental burs and other armamentarium has an interesting history, and in this course you will learn where the technology and science stand at this moment in time.