A diamond burr is a type of rotary tool that uses a diamond-tipped bit to grind, smooth, or shape materials. It can be used on a wide range of materials including glass, metals, and stone. They are commonly used in dentistry for grinding through natural tooth enamel and ceramics in preparation for crown fitting and other procedures requiring precision cutting. However, they are also very popular for stone carving and other applications where the user needs to create a polished surface. They are very similar to carbide burs, but they have their own unique advantages that make them more effective for some specific clinical indications.

When choosing the right diamond bur for a particular job, it is important to consider both the clinical indication and the individual clinician’s preferred technique. Both types of burs have their own strengths and weaknesses, and a dentist should familiarize themselves with both to understand which one works best for them. Typically, dental professionals will choose either a diamond or a carbide bur depending on the task at hand and their level of professional expertise.

Both diamond and carbide burs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and grits. It is very important to match the right size and grit to the appropriate task in order to maximize efficiency and achieve a high quality finish. Moreover, it is important to consider the type of material that the bur will be working with and its specific characteristics.

Unlike the more common, sandpaper-like carbide burs, diamond burs are made of tiny diamond particles that are either sintered into or layered onto the steel. This makes them more powerful than their carbide counterparts and allows them to cut more quickly and cleanly. They are also much more durable, as they will not wear down as easily and will not require regular replacements.

The most common diamond burs are cone, ball, and barrel shaped, each of which has its own use. For example, a cone-shaped bur is perfect for creating small, intricate details while a barrel-shaped bur is great for creating long, straight lines. Regardless of the shape, all diamond burs should be lubricated before and during usage with water or another lubricant in order to prevent damage to the tooth.

While diamond burs are more expensive than carbide burs, they will last much longer and provide a superior finish in the end. This increased durability can lead to a significant cost savings for the dental practice in the long-run. Choosing the correct diamond bur for your clinic will have a direct impact on both patient satisfaction and office efficiency.

Kerr Dental is proud to offer a unique line of high quality, diamond-tipped burs. These products are designed for a wide range of clinical indications, and they are available in both single-use and multi-use options. The multi-use diamond burs are manufactured in compliance with ISO certification standards and utilize a special Unimatrix bonding process that increases the number of exposed diamond surfaces to maximize cutting efficiency. They are also compatible with most standard 3/32″ dia. rotary tool shanks and will fit the adjustable chuck found on most flex-shaft handpieces. diamond burrs