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The Concepts of Four-handed Dentistry Including Ergonomic Instrument Transfer and Exercises for Stress Reduction

Course Number: 643

Six-handed Transfer

Often in situations such as endodontic surgery, high powered microscopes are used by both the dentist and assistant for improved visibility.

In this case, a third set of hands becomes valuable in retraction and preparation of materials. While the first clinical assistant is attentive to the treatment on a specific site, the second clinical assistant (sometimes known as a roving assistant) must anticipate the needs of both the primary assistant as well as the operator. All the previous instrument transfer techniques are still followed during basic instrument transfer. However, the second assistant may need to be on the side of the operator to avoid congestion and to gain improved visual access.