In this dental suction mirror shootout, I compare the Nu-Bird, the Mirro-Vac, and the Diadent suction mirrors. For the full review check out the video below and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog : ).
Purchase Links
– Nu-Bird
– Mirro-Vac
– Diadent
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Video
Hey Mark, great video. Can you show how you hold the suction mirrors while using the power scale instruments. I find that it it is heavy and awkward to hold it. Also is there no back flow when your patients close their lips around the suction mirrors?
Hi Janette,
I hold the suction mirrors the same way I hold regular mirrors. It’s definitely more awkward, primarily because they are attached to a suction hose, but it’s worth it. I don’t get back flow (I have clear tubing so I can see). The flow slows down or sometimes stops, but no back flow. One thing you could do is have the patient close down on half the mirror.
Hey mark, great demo! I was just wondering what attachment you are using on your hve here?
Hi Amanda,
Are you referring to the video? If so, that’s the optional attachment sold by Nu-Bird.
Thank you for the detailed review.. I am putting Nu Bird suction mirrors on my wishlist. The hose attachment too! I like to be aware of what products are available so thank you for putting the information together.
Hi Mark,
I have a question regarding the winning combination of tubing and adapters for a Kona Adapter DS and Nu-Bird Suction Mirror. I only have 1 HVE and 1 Saliva Ejector and these were the two ideas I had mind:
Option 1) I was originally tempted to use a complicated idea of using a Y-connector so that both the Kona DS and Nu-Bird can be connected to the HVE; however, it seems too inconvenient to dismantle and sterilize let alone find the parts and appropriate tubing lengths to make it work.
Option 2) The simplest answer would be to split: Kona DS on HVE and Nu-Bird on the Saliva Ejector. I am more inclined right now with this option for convenience.
My question: Given that I like option 2, how effective and functional is the Nu-bird on the saliva ejector? After attaching the Nu-Bird to the saliva ejector, does it still sufficiently remove fog and pooling water on the mirror head?
In my opinion, the Nu Bird needs the power of the HVE. The ideal option would be to install a second HVE valve if that’s feasible in your case.
Hi Mark,
Thanks for the timely response. Unfortunately, the place that I work will not allow me to install a second HVE valve.
Since the Nu-bird will be used in conjunction with Dry Shield, my only main concerns for a suction mirror are: minimal fog on mirror head and minimal water droplets on the mirror. For comparison purposes, could you give me a score out of 10 (10 being the best) when you have the Nu-Bird on the HVE vs. when the Nu-bird on the Saliva Ejector?
Thank you for time!
When you say, “in conjunction”, do you mean using both at the same time? If not, then you can make the DryShied portable so you don’t have to install it (I have a blog post about it).
Hi Mark,
Yes, I will be using both Dry Shield and Nu-bird at the same time. I have to do tooth preparations and I find it challenging to keep the suction mirror fog and water free (especially for upper molars); however, I don’t have an assistant so it is very much a one man army.
Thanks!
This review is exactly what I was looking for! I’m wanting to incorporate the HVE more in my routine and was looking into the Nu-Bird suction mirror especially for use with the ultrasonic and air polisher (which I hardly use due to the mess). While I was browsing other videos and your posts I came across yo the IsoVac and DryShield. Which system do you prefer for air polishing???
Hi, Mark
I watched your review of three different suction mirror and it’s really helpful. I’m wondering have you started to try Purevac HVE System. The plastic and lightweight suction mirror. Here is the introduction from Dentsply. https://www.dentsplysirona.com/en-us/products/preventive/infection-control.html/Preventive/Infection-Prevention/High-Volume-Evacuation/Purevac-HVE-System/p/DPD-11000-1000110151/c/CAT-00183010.html
I’m a first year hygiene student and we have to choose between nubird and this new light weight mirror. Thank you.
Hi Cong,
I have that PureVac system and I’ll be doing a review soon. So far the PureVac is not performing well. The retraction is very good, but the suction and indirect vision are not good.
Mark
Hi, Mark
Have you heard about hygenie suction mirror and clip on mirror? This hygene mirror seems really nice but i don’t know where to buy it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lb3yTqcwbEI (hygenie suction mirror, similar to purevac sys)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yFSfkHSUV8 (clip on mirror)
Cong
I believe I used the HyGenie some years ago. I don’t recall being very impressed with it. I don’t think it’s being sold anymore.
I have the Clip Mirror and have used it twice so far. I’m really liking it. I’ll post a review on it relatively soon.
Hi, Mark
I really like this post and I’m wondering where did you buy the HVE hose? The translucent hose with spring inside. I searched everywhere and couldn’t find it. The hose comes with Nubird is silicone, heavy and difficult to wipe down. Thank you.
That’s the old tubing Nu-Bird sold in the past.
With returning to work post quaratine, I am wanting tp purchase either the dry shield OR the nu bird to help reduce aerosols. Which product do you think is bettter. One dr is saying no cavitron will be allowed in the office and I can’t imagine not working with an ultrasonic scaler. It would seem using the nu bird there would be no issue with pt compliance whereas the dry shield would. Do you think the nu bird significantly reduces aerosols or just helps with water/suction. Do you find the “drag” of the hose of the nu bird significant? How does it compare to the drag of an ultasonic scaler tube. I wrap that tube around my pinky to avoid the drag because I dislike the feeling of the drag a lot and I dont want to have the frustration with the nubird. Any guidance would be appreciated