Getting to grips with NSK’s new Ti-Max Z turbines
Moj Dehghanpour, Principal Dentist at Yourdental Wellness, talks about his experience of working with NSK’s new high performance Ti-Max Z990L and Z890L turbines.
Yourdental Wellness is a new state-of-the-art private practice situated in Islington London, where we cover all types of treatment, from general dentistry to orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and implants.
My special interest is restorative and cosmetic dentistry, which includes fillings, crown and bridgework, ceramics, composites and implant restorations. As with any aspect of dentistry, using the best equipment is essential to successful treatment outcomes so I always choose what I consider to be the most reputable manufacturers to work with.
I have been using NSK handpieces for about 10 years now, both air turbines and electric speed-increasing contra-angles. Turbines are an important part of restorative dental procedures such as crown preps, veneers and onlays, so I was delighted to be asked to test NSK’s new Ti-Max Z990L and Z890L turbines.
Light and well-balanced
My first impression was that it is obvious that a lot of attention has gone into the design and choice of materials in the construction of the new handpieces. I noticed immediately how light the handpieces feel compared to previous models and how much better the weight distribution is giving a really well-balanced feel.
One of the biggest issues with handpieces is the weight. While a handpiece may initially not feel very heavy, when you hold them for an hour or more at a time, the weight distribution is an important factor during longer appointments.
Another big positive for me is the body of the turbine, which is made of lightweight, high-strength titanium with a non-slip Duragrip coating. While Duragrip is not unique to these handpieces, it does mean they feel better balanced without being too top or bottom heavy and makes them a much nicer instrument to hold.
The increased power in the Ti-Max Z990L means in my opinion and experience it definitely cuts more efficiently than previous models, especially when it comes to harder materials such as zirconia. Whilst the extra power is a big bonus, the grip and the lighter weight are ultimately the most valuable features for me in the new turbines.
Quick-Stop function
Patient safety is always a top priority in my practice. As a turbine is so powerful, rotating at very high speeds, it must come to a complete stop before being removed from the patient’s mouth to avoid any injury to the patient.
The Ti-Max Z990L and Z890L both feature a new Quick-Stop function which is a very useful safety feature that brings the handpiece to a stop almost immediately. This also prevents suck-back of contaminants into the turbine head and subsequently protects against the risk of cross-infection and ensures safer procedures.
Easier access
The Ti-Max Z990L and Z890L both feature an improved 100° angled head which helps with access and visibility in all areas of the mouth. The smaller head of the Z890L makes it a good choice when working in the posterior region or treating patients with limited opening, and it is of course ideal for paediatric dentistry.
Meeting expectations
When it comes to choosing a handpiece, it always comes down to the type of practice you work in and the particular treatments you provide. And, of course, what matters to one clinician does not necessarily matter to another.
I did not have any particular expectations of the new turbines, but I have been very impressed overall, especially with the Ti-Max Z990L which I feel will be a real workhorse in the practice alongside my ever-reliable S-Max M900L. Again, the standout features for me are the weight distribution, the grip, and the lightweight nature of the handpiece. The added bonus of extra power and the Quick Stop function means I would definitely recommend the Ti-Max Z990L to other clinicians looking for a top-of-the-range turbine.
Service and support
NSK products are great quality, reliable and consistent. What is also important is the customer support. I have worked with NSK for a long time and the service and support I receive has always been excellent. They are a great team to work with, especially my local NSK Product Specialist, Mark Beckwith, who is always very responsive and extremely helpful.
Try Before You Buy on NSK Ti-Max Z990 and Z890 turbines – more details at mynsk.co.uk/trialsdemos.
