When it comes to choosing the right kind of delivery system for a dental clinic, it’s important to note that manufacturers focus on different factors like ergonomics, aesthetics, functionality, etc., when making them. Some of them even create a whole product that specializes in comfortability, as one example, which means that the options are so vast it can sometimes be confusing.
Due to the range and diversity of many products, a dental delivery system that can deliver on everything is often rare and expensive. But even so, such amazing equipment would still have its own advantages and disadvantages. To help you choose, we’ll talk about a couple of delivery system types which we believe any dentist should look into.
Over-the-Patient Delivery Systems
With Over-the-Patient (OTP) Delivery Systems, dentists are able to move freely from the 12 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions located around a patient’s head. The unit is found over the patient’s chest, making handpieces and other instruments within easy-to-reach range for both the dentist and the assistant. But there is a certain downside to delivery systems like these.
OTP delivery systems are in extremely close proximity to patients and they’re highly visible too. This might cause unwanted anxiety for some individuals, especially for paediatric patients. One also needs to raise their arms repeatedly at the shoulder to efficiently use the system, which is an ergonomically risky motion that might cause rotator cuff injuries. Dentists might need to avail of the PE9 Dental chair to help with the system’s ergonomic shortcomings.
Rear-Delivery Systems
True to its name, Rear-Delivery Systems hold all of the dental equipment behind the patient’s head. Freeing up space is very important in the operatory, which this kind of dental delivery system excels in. Since it’s located behind the patient, it can also greatly decrease anxiety by not being to “up close and personal” with patients.
Functionality-wise though, Rear-Delivery Systems isn’t the best option, especially for two-handed dentistry. It often encourages dentists and operators to extensively lean, twist, or reach with their torsos, just so they can get their dental instruments. Being in a situation where you constantly do those types of movements, aches and pains are bound to happen, like developing lower back pains.
Slide-Delivery Systems
Compared to Rear-Delivery Systems, Side-Delivery Systems offers more ergonomic advantage for dentists. It captures the importance of ergonomics in dental practices, but it’s important for dentists to face the system squarely whenever they change burs. Unfortunately, some dentists tend to stay in a single working position. Staying in the same position for hours on a daily basis can overwork and strain specific areas of a person’s body that can cause pain. The issue can be solved by changing positions as much as possible to help mitigate the risk of injuries.
A dental delivery system can be a dentist’s best friend or worst enemy—depending on which one they chose. When choosing the right kind of delivery system, remember to take your time and to do some research. After all, it could be the very thing that would bring success to your dental clinic.
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