400,000 RPM - That Fast

One of the little appreciated tools of the dentist is the dental drill. These are amazing little devices made specially for dentistry and do some incredible work.

The speed of a dental drill can vary depending on the type of drill and the procedure being performed. However, most dental drills used for restorative procedures such as filling cavities typically spin at speeds between 100,000 and 400,000 revolutions per minute (RPM).

High-speed dental drills, also known as air-driven handpieces, typically spin at speeds between 200,000 and 400,000 RPM. These drills are powered by compressed air and use special burrs to remove decayed or damaged tooth structure.

In contrast, low-speed dental drills, also known as electric handpieces, typically spin at speeds between 5,000 and 40,000 RPM. These drills are often used for procedures that require more precision, such as preparing a tooth for a crown or shaping the edges of a filling.

It's important to note that the speed of the dental drill can be adjusted by the dental professional based on the needs of the patient and the procedure being performed. The dental professional will use their training and expertise to determine the appropriate speed and technique to use to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.