Are you looking for types of dental equipment and how much they cost? If YES, here are 9 basic dental equipment and how much they cost.
Whether you are starting a new dental practice, or upgrading and expanding your already existing practice, you will need a substantial amount of dental equipment. Aside from new technologies used to treat patients, dental equipment also includes the utility systems that power a dental practice, the systems used for infection control protocols, and even all of the equipment necessary to set up a portable dental operatory.
Dental equipment can be split into various categories to include the types of equipment every practice requires to see to the needs of patients as well as the equipment needed in practices providing specialized services such as endodontic or oral surgery.
Note that the cost of dental equipment can rapidly spiral out of control if you aren’t careful. Therefore, when planning your budget, it is imperative that you run a cost-benefit analysis. Take time to consider the upfront costs of the equipment in comparison to its quality and longevity.
Also note that acquiring dental equipment for new offices starts with large pieces of equipment like dental chairs and x-ray equipment. In addition, the equipment also needs to be appropriate for the staff and your own use. Note there is a lot of bending over during a workday, and picking suitable chairs can help limit physical stress.
It can be very easy to trust that you are getting the best deal when you are working with your preferred equipment supplier; however, it is basically impossible to know without also knowing the average cost of that dental equipment from other suppliers.
Basic Dental Equipment and How Much They Cost
If you have attended dental school, you more or less have a good info on the necessary equipment to get. They include;
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Dental Chairs
Have it in mind that every dental appointment will warrant a patient sitting in the dental chair, and this confirms the dental chair as one of the most important pieces of equipment to get right. Note that patients won’t want to experience any further discomfort during dental appointments.
Your ideal dental chairs should be comfortably padded with movable armrests to make it easier for patients to sit in and get out of the chair.
Cost
$1,650 – $2,400
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Sterilizing Equipment
Also, note that your sterilizing equipment should be some of the best if you want to ensure proper hygiene in your practice.
You can pick from dry heat sterilizers or sterilizers that use steam. Endeavor to pick a model that sterilizes more quickly because it will help you save money by keeping more sterilized instruments in rotation at a time, somehow reducing the need for a larger inventory.
Cost
Satum 5000 Sterilizer Refurbished – $2,600
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Lab Equipment
Reliable and efficient lab equipment gives room for increased efficiency in pouring models, trimming them, and doing polishing work. Model trimmers and lathes are one of the most commonly used equipment in a dental laboratory. Other equipment includes:
- Microscopes
- Sandblasters
- Dust collectors
- Pneumatic chisels
- Waxers
Cost
$900 – $3000
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X-Ray Equipment
X-rays are very crucial in diagnosing problems and ensuring maintained oral health. It is recommended that you aim for a digital x-ray technology to gain the highest quality images. Some of the equipment you should consider include:
- Intraoral sensors
- Phosphor plate systems
- Digital panoramic systems
Cost
$1,900 – $4000
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Hand Instruments
In terms of dental instruments, note that hand instruments are critical to almost every task and procedure, from routine check-ups to complicated surgical procedures. General use hand pieces and instruments for specific procedures are both necessary. Hand instruments needed in a dental office include;
- Specialty Instruments
- Restorative Instruments
- Surgical Instruments
- Hand Cutting Instruments
- Examination and Diagnostic Instruments
Cost
$2,400 – $8,999
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Disposable Supplies
In this line of business, there are numerous single-use supplies required to keep appointments going smoothly throughout the week. Examples of some crucial disposable supplies include:
- Exam gloves
- Face masks
- Air/water syringe tips
- Cotton rolls
- Barrier film
- X-ray sensor sleeves
- Dental bibs
- Sterilization pouches
- Headrest covers
- Hand piece sleeves
- Prophy cups and brushes
- Paper cups
Cost
Varies greatly
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Practice Management Software
Although practice management software is not considered a piece of equipment, it is a vital tool for success in modern dentistry.
Have it in mind that this type of software more or less automates many of the challenging administrative tasks that take employee time, allowing for more personalized patient care. Practice management software is most commonly used to automate scheduling, accounting and communications with patients.
Cost
$2,999 – $5,999
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Operating Lights
Note that enough lighting can make the difference between a complicated operation and a successful one. It is also very necessary in making accurate diagnoses.
Have it in mind that dental lights can be placed on nearly any surface in the office, so endeavor to pick a system that will work well with the layouts of your exam and operating rooms. The lights will have to be easily movable so dentists, hygienists, and assistants can extensively find the most illuminating angle for each patient.
Cost
$900 – $1,900
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Accessory Instruments
It is imperative you also don’t forget miscellaneous accessory instruments dentists and other staff will need for additional procedures. Some examples include:
- Syringes
- Spatulas
- Scissors
- Retractors
- How pliers
- Mouth gags
- Amalgam wells
- Air/water tips
- Articulating paper holders
Cost
Varies exponentially
Conclusion
When it comes to purchasing dental equipment, embarking on detailed research is one of the most effective routes to take.
It is also a good idea to find out what other dentists think about brands as well as specific products. Having that information will help you know the approximate market value so that you can negotiate and get it at the lowest possible cost for your business.