The effect of low-speed drilling without irrigation on heat generation: an experimental study

OBJECTIVES: In this study we evaluated heat generation during the low-speed drilling procedure without irrigation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten artificial bone blocks that were similar to human D1 bone were used in this study. The baseline temperature was 37.0℃. We drilled into 5 artificial bone blocks 60 times at the speed of 50 rpm without irrigation. As a control group, we drilled into an additional 5 artificial bone blocks 60 times at the speed of 1,500 rpm with irrigation. The temperature changes during diameter 2 mm drilling were measured using thermocouples. RESULTS: The mean maximum temperatures during drilling were 40.9℃ in the test group and 39.7℃ in the control group. Even though a statistically significant difference existed between the two groups, the low-speed drilling did not produce overheating. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that low-speed drilling without irrigation may not lead to overheating during drilling.