Hi everybody
I am a DDS freshman trying to set up my own unit at home and I know I need a compressor, what else do I need? Can I use any air compressor (ex. The ones sold at sears) or do I need to buy the ones from dental equipment companies? what are the requirement for the compressor? and what additional stuff do I need? I truly appreciate any help and tips!
USC Class of 2012
Many CE courses just go out and buy a small portable air compressor and 4 hole tubing with a coupler to attach a highspeed to it.
Craftsman 1hp 3gal air compressor - $99.99
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4-hole tubing w/ air compressor - $18.25
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Rheostat - $79.00
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You will need some couplers and small parts from Home depot or Lowes to finish the job, but turns out nice. No water, though, and you will need a second tube with a split coupler to add a slow speed if you want it, or you could just switch high/low if you need it. Air spray comes from the tubing when no hand piece is connected. Water comes from the kitchen sink
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You can save yourself a lot of trouble buying one of these portable units, but their pressure is very weak and will stall a handpiece when you push against a typodont. Remember, there is no water from this setup, so you will burn faster than with water.
And if you want to get fancy:
Lab engine - $179.99
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Dust collector -
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Wet/Dry Vac - $29.99
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This is for suction to hook up to the dust collector. Trust me, you'll need a dust collector if you are planning on cutting stone inside a room.
6' plastic folding table - $50.00 - Lowes
You can also get a stone model grinder, vibrator, etc etc etc. The possibilities are endless. I wish I knew this information when I was a D1, I could have spent a lot more time with my dogs at home. Then again, the lab is a fun place to hang out and you learn a lot from your friends while there.
