Refurbished vs New Handpieces: 10 Reasons DSOs Are Reconsidering Replacement
Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) are under increasing pressure to manage costs while maintaining consistent clinical performance across multiple locations. One area receiving renewed attention is handpiece procurement. As equipment costs rise and supply chains remain unpredictable, many DSOs are reevaluating whether purchasing new handpieces is always the most effective option.
For a growing number of organizations, refurbished handpieces are emerging as a practical, cost-conscious alternative—without sacrificing reliability or clinical standards.
Below are 10 key reasons DSO’s are reconsidering replacement in favor of refurbished handpieces.
1. Significant Cost Savings
Refurbished handpieces typically cost 30–50% less than new, allowing DSOs to reduce capital expenditures while still equipping operatories with dependable instruments. These savings can be redirected toward technology upgrades, staffing, or practice growth.
2. Comparable Performance When Properly Rebuilt
High-quality refurbished handpieces are disassembled, rebuilt with precision components, and tested for performance, balance, and function. When serviced by experienced technicians, refurbished units can meet or exceed manufacturer specifications.
3. Faster Availability
Unlike new equipment, which may come with long lead times or backorders, refurbished handpieces are often available immediately, helping practices avoid downtime and delays in care.
4. Reduced Capital Burden Across Locations
For DSOs managing multiple practices, purchasing refurbished handpieces can significantly reduce the upfront cost of equipping new operatories or expanding existing locations.
5. Consistency Across the Network
Refurbished inventory allows DSOs to standardize handpiece models across locations without the premium pricing associated with buying new equipment for every operatory.
6. Warranty Protection
Reputable refurbishers offer warranties comparable to new equipment, providing confidence and protection while still maintaining lower acquisition costs.
7. Improved Asset Utilization
Refurbished handpieces make it easier to rotate inventory, maintain backups, and reduce reliance on emergency replacements—helping DSOs extend the usable life of their equipment fleet.
8. Sustainability and Waste Reduction
Extending the life of dental equipment through refurbishment reduces waste and supports more sustainable procurement practices—an increasingly important consideration for larger organizations.
9. Lower Total Cost of Ownership
When repair history, downtime, replacement frequency, and procurement costs are evaluated together, refurbished handpieces often deliver a lower total cost of ownership than purchasing new units repeatedly.
10. Strategic Flexibility Without Compromise
Refurbished handpieces give DSOs flexibility in budgeting and procurement decisions without compromising clinical performance or patient care.
The Bottom Line
For DSOs focused on efficiency, uptime, and long-term cost control, refurbished handpieces are not a downgrade—they are a strategic procurement tool. When sourced and serviced properly, refurbished equipment can help organizations control costs, reduce downtime, and maintain consistent standards across locations.
At Precision Handpiece Repairs LLC, we offer a wide selection of new and refurbished handpieces, with over 1,000 products available across high-speed, low-speed, electric, surgical, and ultrasonic categories. Each refurbished handpiece is carefully inspected, rebuilt, and tested to ensure dependable performance—giving DSOs flexible options to meet both clinical and budgetary needs.
Interested in learning more?
Explore our inventory or speak with our team to discuss options that fit your organization’s goals.
📧 precisionhandpiece@gmail.com
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