Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

What type of handpiece should be used with a prophy angle with a cup or brush?

1. High speed

2. Low speed

3. Ultrasound

4. Electric

The correct answer is: Low speed

The appropriate handpiece to use with a prophy angle that has a cup or brush is a low-speed handpiece. This is because low-speed handpieces are specifically designed for procedures that involve polishing and prophylaxis, which require controlled, gentle movements to avoid damage to the tooth structure or surrounding tissues. The low-speed handpiece can operate at the slower rotations necessary for effectively applying prophylaxis paste to the teeth, helping to remove plaque and stains while providing a thorough cleaning. The use of a prophy angle, which fits onto the low-speed handpiece, allows for a more ergonomic approach to tooth polishing, enabling the dental professional to maneuver easily and apply the paste efficiently. In contrast, high-speed handpieces are primarily used for procedures that involve cutting or shaping tooth structure, such as cavity preparation, which requires much higher rotational speeds and is not suitable for routine polishing. Ultrasound handpieces are intended for specific procedures such as periodontal therapy and do not align with the task of using prophy angles. Electric handpieces may enhance precision and control but are not specifically designed for the use of prophy angles in the same manner as low-speed handpieces. Overall, low-speed handpieces are the standard choice for tasks that involve prophy angles due to their