Often the most used components of any system in a dental office are those that are rarely considered until there is a problem. In any patient room, the choice of dental foot controls is vital to the operation of the device and equipment used by the dentist and dental hygienist.
The design of dental foot controls varies based on the specific options selected. One of the most important initial considerations with these components is if the foot control needs to regulate both air and water. These are known as wet and dry controls, and they may also include a chip blower, which is essential when filling cavities and other types of operations were debris occurs during drilling or other similar processes.
Basic Requirements
Regardless of the number of functions on the foot control, the key is that the device should effectively control the flow of air and, in some applications, the flow of water through the handpieces. The additional requirement for the option to regulate the water through the foot control is accomplished through a toggle on the base that turns on the water to the system when required and is also used to shut off the water when air is required.
Design Considerations
The design of the controller is critical to a long duty cycle. These are dental components that are used with virtually all procedures, and they are often kicked, knocked, or exposed to water, which means the exterior also has to be durable.
Look for dental foot controls that are designed to stand up to everyday wear and tear. Powder coated or chrome types of surfaces are durable and resistant to corrosion, and systems that use quality parts and components are able to last for extended periods of time, even in busy dental offices.
