Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Originally launched at IDS 2011 in Cologne, Germany, KOMET’s Ceramic Cutters are designed for trimming and shaping acrylics, soft liners and thermoplastic materials.
There are a number of benefits to using a bur made from durable, high performance ceramic rather than the traditional tungsten carbide cutters. For one, ceramic is a poor conductor of heat thus reducing any deformation or discoloration of the material surfaces being adjusted. An additional advantage of this “cooler cutting” is reduced risk of burn injuries while changing burs—as long as they are used with care and a low pressure.
I was given the opportunity to work with these ceramic cutters for a few weeks, and I can honestly say that it was a great experience. Cooler cutting as advertised, less clogging of the cutting channels, and very smooth finish on acrylics and thermoplastics.
While I have not used them over a long period of time, the sharp cutting surfaces of the ceramic blades are said to be durable and stay sharp for an extended period, even when used in a clinical setting where repeated steam sterilization is performed.
KOMET Ceramic Cutters are offered in two configurations—convex-shaped (K251ACR.104.060) and tapered (K79GSQ.104.040). The tapered K79GSQ is recommended for soft and flexible partial acrylics, and the convex-shaped K251ACR is ideal for hard denture acrylics, nightguards and trays.
Review Synopsis
Product
KOMET Ceramic Cutters for Acrylics
The Good
KOMET’s Ceramic Cutters do a great job of cutting acrylics and thermoplastics without clogging or generating too much heat.
The Bad
As with any cutting instrument, these must be used with care because less heat while cutting doesn’t mean no heat while cutting.
The Bottom Line
Cool and efficient cutting of acrylics with a smooth finish adds up to make these a worthwhile option for clinicians or technicians who need to adjust acrylics on a regular basis.