Introduction

Instrument transfer is the process of transferring instruments and materials to and from the operator, within the transfer zone, at a precise moment of need.  (Figure 1)  An important pre-requisite to successful instrument transfer is the ability of each member of the dental team to understand the procedure and anticipate each other's needs.  Use of an efficient instrument transfer is one of the basic skills every dental team must learn in order to be productive and stress free.  This notion may seem basic, yet many dentists and assistants struggle to refine a smooth productive technique.

During the past twenty-five years there has been a diminished emphasis on formal education in the basic principles of the four-handed dentistry concept including the use of efficient instrument transfer techniques.  This has resulted in dentists not learning proper ergonomic strategies in dental school, or following graduation due to fewer continuing education courses being offered on the subject.  These dentists tend to work more inefficiently and engage in more time consuming movements during dental procedures than is necessary.  Proper instrument transfer techniques serve to conserve motion, increase the flow of the procedure and reduce eyestrain by eliminating the need to look away from the brightly illuminated operative field during the transfer.  It is advisable to re-evaluate the instrument transfer techniques used during a dental procedure in order to ensure safety during the transfer and ensure that the benefits of a proper technique (listed below) are realized.

• The operator is able to maintain vision on the operative field thus reducing eyestrain associated with changing light intensity and focal length accommodation.

• The operating team conserves time and motion during instrument transfers.

• There is a reduction in stress and strain on the operating team due to the uninterrupted flow of the procedure without the nagging delays associated with locating and delivering instruments if an orderly system is not used.

• When instrument transfer is used in conjunction with the oral evacuator and the air/water syringe, the operative site will always be clean and the next instrument will be ready for use.

• Percutaneous injuries associated with use of dental instruments can be minimized using a prescribed transfer technique.

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