There are so many variables to consider when making equipment selections. Cost is a very big factor as well as longevity, dependability, serviceability and support. On the following pages, the results of the equipment that received the highest amount of votes are listed.

Please be sure to visit the DentalTown website at www.dentaltown.com for a listing of the top ten items selected for each category and their total votes. The survey was conduced entirely online during the month of October.

DentalTown hopes this information will assist you throughout the year in making serious decisions on equipment purchases. To learn more about dentist’s experiences and evaluations, visit the message boards www.dentaltown.com and do a search for a particular product or click on the Equipment forum, where items are discussed within specific product forums.

Here are just a few of the current topics of discussion within the Equipment forum:

• Diagnodent 86 replies
• Regulating start-up costs 83 replies
• What is the stuff you can’t live without? 39 replies
• Best electric handpieces 22 replies
• Real life emergency kits & solutions 29 replies
• Electrosurge—need suggestions 30 replies
• Xray unit shot — new tube head or unit? 19 replies
• LED Curing Lights 35 replies
• 2003 Equipment wish list 28 replies

Also within the Equipment forums are separate categories specifically devoted to discussion on Burs and Handpieces with over 118 different topics of discussion. Once dentists visit the website and become Townies they say they wouldn’t want to practice without DentalTown again. See how much valuable information is waiting for you.

	Air Abrasion	Danville—Microetcher IIA
Danville’s Microetcher IIA is a completely autoclavable intraoral sandblaster. The patented design allows the nozzle to be rotated 360 deg. and interchanged with other sizes and angles. The new nozzle also features a slimmer profile for greater visibility. It’s precision micro-roughening improves bond strength up to 400% in just seconds. Perfect for etching all metals, composites and amalgams, as well as cleaning darkened grooves and prepping incipient lesions. For product information contact Danville Engineering at 800-827-7940. (Votes: 321 of 1767)

	Amalgam Separators	DentalEZ––RAMVAC Hg5
Placing or removing amalgam restorations creates pulverized amalgam, which is aspirated by the vacuum system. The RAMVAC Hg5 Amalgam Separator from DentalEZ Group provides dentists with an economical solution for proving they meet new requirements to prevent excessive amounts of mercury from reaching the environment. The Hg5 meets ISO 11143 amalgam separator requirements, intercepts microscopic particles, and captures “dissolved” mercury to keep sewer discharge more than 99% free from heavy metals. Please visit www.dentalez.com or call 1-866-DTE-INFO. (Votes: 35 of 1766)

	Apex Locators	J. Morita USA––Root ZX
The Root ZX has been independently evaluated with a clinical accuracy rate of 96.2%. The accuracy rate is not affected by the presence or absence of blood, other discharges, or electrolytes. The meter corresponds exactly to the tactile sensation of using the file large. Other features include: easy-to-read display; no zero-adjustment; automatic calibration; battery power indication and automatic power off function. For more information, call 888-909-ENDO (3636), or visit www.jmoritausa.com. (Votes: 893 of 1763)

	Cameras Intraoral Cameras	Dentsply Gendex—AcuCam Concept IV
The Gendex AcuCam Concept IV Intraoral Camera Systems offer the most advanced image quality. At the heart of the systems is the sophisticated camera handpiece, which incorporates an advanced direct optical system and state-of-the-art high resolution DSP into a sealed stainless steel housing. The result is a dependable intraoral camera that produces sharp, color-accurate images. With the highest magnification (85x), exceptional resolution (80 lp/mm output), and powerful illumination, the Concept IV is your window to better dentistry. (Votes: 178 of 1754)

	Caries Detection Equipment	KaVo––DIAGNOdent Laser Caries Detector
The KaVo DIAGNOdent caries detection laser identifies caries activity by measuring the incident light energy created by the laser. The device is particularly effective at detecting incipient pit and fissure caries that would otherwise test negative using x-rays, explorer or other diagnostic means. The DIAGNOdent is a small portable unit, simple to operate and requires no protective measures. For more information call KaVo America at 888-KAVO-USA (888-528-6872) or visit www.kavousa.com. (Votes: 633 of 1753)

	Chairs	A-dec
A-dec dental chairs are known for streamlined design, rugged construction, and reliable operation. All three models, Performer, Decade, and Cascade come standard with a cast aluminum baseplate, double-articulating headrest, and programmable footswitch. As the top-of-the-line chair, Cascade adds a sculpted backrest casting, automatic armrests, and a Plus Upholstery option for enhanced patient comfort. For more information contact A-dec at 800-547-1883 or visit their website at www.a-dec.com. (Votes: 316 of 1750)

	Communication Systems	Comlite Systems––LCS4000
The Comlite LCS4000 has 15 user customized dual function (steady or blinking) light buttons. Each unit is 6.75 in. square by 1.25 in. thick. It can be mounted on a wall or placed on a counter or desktop. A handheld remote control allows chairside operation. Installation can be as easy as plugging into an outlet or the system can be hardwired using two pair telephone wire. For more information call 800-426-5271 or go to www.comliteinfo.com. (Votes: 58 of 1732)

	Compressors	Air Techniques––AirStar Dental Air Compressor
The AirStar Oil-free Dental Air Compressor from Air Techniques, Inc. has been trusted for over 30 years in tens of thousands of dental practices AirStar generates 100% oil-free, ultra-dry hygienic dental air to protect your health, your valuable handpieces, and the integrity of your restorations. Choose from five models to accommodate up to 10 users. Contact your local authorized Air Techniques dealer or call 800-Air-Tech for more information. (Votes: 241 of 1714)

	Articulators & Face-Bows Articulator Systems	Waterpik—Denar Articulators
Thanks to you we are the people’s choice! Working with leaders in the field of occlusion, Denar has developed a variety of articulator systems to address specific needs. Popular model names include the Combi, Mark II, Anamark Plus, Advantage, Automark, and D5A. The Denar brand represents comprehensive systems that provide the necessary tools for you to create total harmony of the teeth and temporomandibular joints. For more information please call Waterpik at 800-201-7286. (Votes: 319 of 1704)

	Articulators & Face-Bows Face-Bow Systems	Waterpik—Denar Slidematic Facebow
Thanks to you we are the people’s choice! A fast, easy, and accurate means of transferring proper maxillary relationships. When restoring anterior teeth, the facebow record provides critical information for your laboratory and can help you obtain predictable results, every time. This facebow is so easy to use that most dentists have their assistant take this vital record. This facebow comes with a convenient detachable transfer jig that frees up the facebow for the next patient. 800-201-7286 (Votes: 277 of 1684)

	Bleaching/Curing Lights Bleaching Lights	Den-Mat Corp.—Rembrandt Sapphire Plasma Arc Light
The Rembrandt Sapphire Plasma Arc Light is like driving the Indy 500—FAST! The award-winning (5-PLUS rating, THE DENTAL ADVISOR and 4-STAR rating, REALITY) Sapphire Light is the foundation of the Rembrandt One-Hour Smile Whitening Program. Use the light to individually whiten teeth for uniform shade consistency or for dual-arch whitening in one hour, safely and effectively, with no harmful UV rays for both you and your patients. Contact (800) 445-0345 or www.denmat.com. (Votes: 148 of 1763)

	Bleaching/Curing Lights Curing Lights	Kerr—Optilux 501
Optilux 501 is a visible light curing unit designed to polymerize adhesives and composite materials. Unit has a variety of features not found in previous models, which include an LCD 4-digit radiometer display, Ramp, Boost and Bleach mode and Count-up display timer in all modes. For more information call Kerr, a division of Sybron Dental Specialties, at 800-537-7123 or visit their website at www.kerrdental.com. (Votes: 529 of 1760)

	Cameras Extraoral Cameras	Kodak––DX 4900 Dental Digital Camera Kit
The Kodak DX4900 Dental Digital Camera Kit is designed to provide an easy, cost-effective way to create high-quality prints. The kit features: a 4.0 Megapixel Chip that delivers high quality images, a Close-Up Lens enabling dental macro photography, a Distance Guide for consistent color and image size, a Positioning Grid for proper image framing, and a Kodak EasyShare Camera Dock for easy transfer of images to computers and battery recharging. For more information please call Kodak at 800-933-8031. (Votes: 102 of 1757)

	Electro Surge Units	Parkell––Sensimatic 600SE
The Sensimatic 600SE provides all three dental operating modes: cut, cut/coagulate, and coagulate. Rugged solid-state design eliminates warm-up. Tips, handpiece and cable are fully autoclavable. Includes a flexible indifferent plate for patient comfort plus 6 electrodes, 5-year power-unit warranty, and 3-month risk-free trial. The Sensimatic 600SE is UL listed and carries the CE mark. For more information call Parkell at 800-243-7446. (Votes: 507 of 1713)

	Handpieces & Maintenance Systems Automatic Handpiece Maintenance Systems	KaVo––QUATTROcare
The QUATTROcare ensures fast and convenient cleaning, lubricating and purging for up to four handpieces, air motors or air scalers. The unique spray expands by 200-300 times in the inside of every handpiece ensuring debris is properly removed before sterilization. Proper care means reduced repair costs. The QUATTROcare system is easy, fast, economical and safe and can be used for virtually all manufactures handpieces. For more information contact your dealer 800-323-8029 or visit www.kavousa.com. (Votes: 176 of 1735)

	Handpieces & Maintenance Systems Electric High/Low Speed	KaVo––ELECTROtorque
KaVo’s ELECTROtorque plus system features a 3-year warranty, and a unique brushless motor that requires no maintenance or exchange of brushes. This powerful motor provides constant speed and torque, runs vibration-free and quieter than conventional brush motors. Together with KaVo’s new line of durable cellular optic attachments, the system features a speed range from 27–200,000 rpm. For more information call KaVo America at 800-323-8029 or visit www.kavousa.com (Votes: 175 of 1735)

	Handpieces & Maintenance Systems Endodonitics-Rotary	Dentsply Tulsa—ProFile Rotary Instruments
These popular nickel titanium rotary files ease around curved canals, letting you create a tapered preparation. A special safety-tip design has a minimal transition angle to prevent ledging and transporting. Radial-landed U-shaped flutes lift debris coronally, letting you create a crown down, continuously tapering preparation from orifice to apex–the best shape for obturation. For more information please call Dentsply Tulsa at 1-800-662-1202 or visit them online at www.tulsadental.com. (Votes:184 of 1748)

	Handpieces & Maintenance Systems Endodontics-Ultrasonic	Medidenta—Sonic Air MM 1500 Endo System
An advanced sonic vibratory endodontic system that follows all traditional principals, safely and efficiently without operator stress. Sonic instruments include Rispisonic for cleansing, Shapersonic for shaping, Sonic Fillers for filling and Retroprep for apical surgery. A must for NiTi Rotary instrumentation the Sonic MM 1500 pioneered the “Crown Down” technique. Built in irrigation and stopper to control the working length; enhances safe rapid flaring and debridement with virtual removal of the smear layer. (Votes: 54 of 1745)

	Handpieces & Maintenance Systems Handpiece-High Speed	KaVo––Cellular Optic High Speed Handpieces
The GENTLEforce LUX 6000B, at 18 Watts of power, is the most powerful high-speed in the industry. It runs super quiet, and has a 4-port spray for optimal cooling and visibility. The 635B features a miniature head for pediatric use and areas of difficult access. The 647B and 649B feature a standard head, superior torque and a 3-hole spray (4-hole spray on 649B). For more information call KaVo America at 800-323-8029 or visit www.kavousa.com. (Votes: 496 of 1740)

	Handpieces & Maintenance Systems Handpiece-Low Speed	Dentsply Professional—Low-speed Motors
Dentsply Professional offers three low-speed motors: The Midwest Shorty, the Midwest Rhino Motor and the revolutionary Midwest RDH, the world’s first ergonomic hygiene handpiece. Midwest Shorty Motors offer speeds of up to 30,000 RPM for caries removal, polishing, finishing and other operations. Midwest Rhino offers up to 8000 RPM of powerful torque. Both motors accept all Midwest-Style attachments. The Midwest RDH offers either a right-angle head for standard prophy cups/brushes or in U-Style for DPAs. (Votes: 305 of 1738)

	Lasers	Biolase Technology, Inc.—Waterlase YSGG
The #1-selling Waterlase YSGG all-tissue laser is the complete laser for every dentist. Utilizing patented laser-energized water technology (HydroKinetic energy), this versatile instrument can perform most hard tissue procedures including Class I-V cavity preps and caries removal—without anesthesia in most cases. The Waterlase can also perform dozens of soft tissue procedures. Also, the Waterlase is the FIRST dental laser cleared for root canal therapy and the ONLY laser cleared for cutting bone and apicoectomy. (Votes: 108 of 1731)

	Magnification Light Systems	Orascoptic—Zeon Illuminator
From Orascoptic, the leader in dental magnification, comes an innovative vision and lighting system for the dental professional. With the Zeon Illuminator, dental professionals can easily see into deep recesses with brilliant, shadowless illumination, eliminating dependence on overhead lighting. Combined with Orascoptic magnifying telescopes, the Zeon significantly enhances depth-of-field and magnified resolution, providing unmatched visual acuity. The new Zeon Illuminator provides bright, shadowless line-of-sight illumination and now has a built-in cure inhibiting filter. (Votes: 132 of 1729)

	Magnification Loupes	Designs for Vision, Inc.––Dental Telescopes
Designs for Vision builds completely customized ergonomic Dental Telescopes. The focal length is set at your ideal working distance. The glasses incorporate your eyeglass prescription providing an interpupillary view and a unique look around design. Lightweight Galilean Telescopes are available in 2.5X, 3.5X, and 4.5X magnifications. Expanded Field Prismatic Telescopes are available in 2.5X, 3.5X, 4.5X, and 6.0X magnifications. Contact us at 800-345-4009 or info@designsforvision.com and ask about our 45 day – No obligation trial. (Votes: 468 of 1731)

	Magnification Microscopes	Global Surgical Corp.—Protégé System
Global Surgical is the only U.S. manufacturer of dental microscopes and provides a lifetime warranty on its optics. Global microscopes are designed specifically for dentistry and are used by GPs, Periodontists, and Endodontists around the world. Global microscopes offer excellent ergonomic benefits, reducing or eliminating sore necks and backs. The ability to attach a camera or video to the microscope makes patient education and documentation a valuable addition to the dental practice. Call 800-861-3585. (Votes: 15 of 1728)

	Operatory Delivery Systems Chairside & Rear Delivery	A-dec
A-dec’s streamlined delivery systems come in a wide variety of choices and options including: chair, wall, cart or cabinet mounted. For more information contact A-dec at 800-547-1883 or visit their website at www.a-dec.com. (Votes: 480 of 1715)

	Operatory Lights	A-dec
A-dec offers two types of dental lights, the 6300 and Performer. The 6300 is available in seven different mounting configurations: unit-, post-, ceiling-, track-, wall-, cabinet-, and Radius-mount. All include a smooth-positioning, counter-balanced flex arm; third axis of rotation; conveniently mounted spare bulb; as well as contours that are easy to clean or barrier protect. To help reduce eye fatigue, the 6300 dental light provides a balanced, easily focused light pattern in three available light intensities. (Votes: 263 of 1716)

	Perio Charting BasedPerio Charting	Dentrix Dental Systems, Inc.—DENTRIX Dictation
Fully integrated with the Dentrix clinical and practice management system, DENTRIX Dictation is the hands-free alternative to the time-consuming, expensive, and inefficient process of transcribing clinical notes. DENTRIX Dictation is our voice-recognition solution that offers an optimal level of accuracy, flexibility, adaptability with an added vocabulary of over 14,000 dental terms. Increase productivity and efficiency with DENTRIX Dictation—clinical notes made simple. For more information visit www.dentrix.com. (Votes: 103 of 1726)

	Shade Matching	Ivoclar Vivadent––Chromascop
The Chromascop is the universal shade guide for the innovative Ivoclar Vivadent product range. Twenty chromatically arranged shades make shade selection within the wide range of Ivoclar Vivadent products quicker and more accurate. The practice-oriented Chromascop shade guide is the ideal working tool for dental professionals. The advantages are: easy handling; logical, chromatic arrangement of shades; good reproducibility; standarized shading; and it is disinfectable. (Votes: 183 of 1725)

	Sterilizers	SciCan—Statim 2000 Sterilizer
The Statim has become the industry standard for fast, effective and gentle sterilization cycles. Our Statim 2000 can run a complete unwrapped cycle in 6.5 minutes while a wrapped cycle will be completed in 12.5 minutes. Statims will not rust or corrode expensive delicate dental instrumentation. General practice dental offices find that their surgical instruments, scalers and anything with a hinge will look and operate flawlessly for years. Life of handpiece turbines and fiber optics are also enhanced. (Votes: 412 of 1722)

	Stools	A-dec
Cascade stools are durable, easy to clean, and feature a smooth, rolled-edge seat that minimizes pressure on the legs. With four available configurations, the choices include a large anatomically shaped backrest to provide back and lumbar support, a contoured or contoured-round seat, and an adjustable, locking torso support. For more information contact A-dec at 800-547-1883 or visit their website at www.a-dec.com. (Votes: 251 of 1718)

	Suction Equipment	Sultan Chemists—PUREVAC Evacuation System Cleaner
Formulated to dissolve and wash away impression material, organic tissue, bone fragments, rope-like saliva, and debris that allow odor-forming bacteria to grow. PUREVAC concentrated formula is non-foaming, biodegradable, and safe for all types of tubing. Leaves a fresh lemon fragrance. Used daily, eliminates the need to clean the trap. Available in 2L and 5L bottles and is dispensed easily with the New! PUREVAC AUTO WALKABOUT dispensing unit. Sultan Chemists 800-637-8582, www.sultanchemists.com. (Votes: 147 of 1713)

	Triturators/Mixers	Ivoclar Vivadent––Silamat S5
Silamat S5 is a universal mixer for amalgam, glass ionomer cements and other pre-dosed dental materials in capsules and syringes. The new plastic mixing fork facilitates the loading of capsules and an easy-to-read display counts down the remaining mixing time. The Silamat S5 is easy to operate and includes a transparent protective cover with an integrated safety switch to help prevent injury. (Votes: 195 of 1711)

	Ultrasonic Units Ultrasonic Cleaning Units	Coltène/Whaledent––Biosonic
Bultrasonic 1 and 3 gallon cleaners feature simultaneous cleaning of beakers and baskets while operating up to 20% quieter than all metal cleaners. In addition, a full compliment of Biosonic accessories such as baskets, cassettes, cassette racks, beakers, beaker holders, cleaning and disinfecting solutions are available. All Biosonic cleaners operate with a fully closed lid to minimize airborne particulates and noise. Call 800-221-3046, visit www.ColteneWhaledent.com, or email customerservice@coltenewhaledent.com for more information. (Votes: 585 of 1708)

	Ultrasonic Units Ultrasonic Scalers	Parkell––TURBOSENSOR SCALER
The Turbosensor Scaler instantly detects whether the handpiece contains a 25KHz or 30KHz insert and automatically switches operating-frequency to match. Features an expanded low-power range for subgingival use. Allows operator to jump to high-power “turbo” mode simply by increasing pressure on the footpedal. Operator can set power very low for patient comfort, yet instantly access high power for residual calculus. Includes 2 autoclavable handpiece sleeves, 5-year power unit warranty plus a 3-month money-back trial. For more information contact Parkell at 800-243-7446. (Votes: 454 of 1709)

	Waterline Systems	A-dec
For more information please contact A-dec at 800-547-1883. (Votes: 29 of 1707)

	X-Ray Equipment Intraoral Machines	Dentsply Gendex—GX770
Known for its performance and reliability, the Gendex GX-770 offers 70kVp for high contrast images with a 0.6mm focal spot for maximum image sharpness. The small, easy-to-position tubehead has a recessed focal spot and accommodates either an 8 or 12 inch cone. Durable and steady folding arm comes in two reach lengths, to accommodate any office design. The simple master control offers user-friendly settings and automatic line voltage compensation. Two-year warranty on the entire system. (Votes: 571 of 1706)

	X-Ray Equipment Digital X-Ray Sensors	Schick Technologies, Inc.––CDR
The ultimate tool in patient education and a proven practice builder, CDR delivers high quality images instantly, with no chemicals to handle, no hassles with duplicating images, and exposes your patients to far less radiation than film. This standard digital radiograph system features 3 sensors. Schick also offers the world’s first intraoral wireless sensors, (#1 and #2). CDR Wireless provides all the benefits as our wired sensors––but without the cord. (Votes: 159 of 1704)

	X-Ray Equipment Film Processors	Air Techniques––A/T2000 XR
The A/T2000 XR from Air Techniques, Inc. develops all film sizes: panoramic, cephalometric, TMJ, occlusal and periapicals. Processing time, chemistry temperature and chemistry replenishment are automatically monitored and adjusted. Results are always consistent and accurate. Archival quality films are processed in 5.5 minutes. Plus, there is an Endo Speed for quick-look films in only 2.5 minutes. Contact your local authorized Air Techniques dealer or call 800-Air-Tech for more information. (Votes: 569 of 1706)

	X-Ray Equipment Panoramix/Cephalometric Machines	Dentsply Gendex — GX-PAN
Easy to own and operate, the Gendex GX-PAN offers consistent panoramic imaging in a value-priced package. Precise patient positioning and digital display of pre-programmed technique factors make operation intuitive and easy. High-speed film and intensifying screens assure minimum patient dosage and maximum diagnostic image quality. This durable and dependable panoramic x-ray incorporates many time-proven components and is backed by a nationwide support organization. The GX-PAN carries a two-year warranty on the entire system. (Votes: 193 of 1704)

	X-Ray Equipment Phosphour Plate Systems	Dentsply Gendex — DenOptix
The DenOptix Digital Imaging System is designed to completely replace traditional x-ray film and film processors. This system, built on imaging plate technology, offers diagnostic quality images while lowering costs and hassles associated with processors, film, and chemicals. Just load the plates on the carousel and return to your patient. It works with your current x-ray generating equipment, including pan and ceph, and is an affordable way to upgrade the digital imaging for your entire practice. (Votes: 72 of 1704)