Since the introduction of amalgams, a mixing tool has been required to triturate or grind into a fine powder and mix the materials used in their creation. Since their original introduction, they have been updated for use with glass ionomers and a variety of other materials used in dentistry. These machines spin at high RPMs in a figure-eight motion to reduce the materials to powder and mix it evenly and thoroughly. The frequent use of these machines makes choosing a quality device essential, while the range of materials used requires them to be versatile in order to serve the needs of your practice.
Table 1: Comparison of numerical values
| Model | Price | Weight (lbs) | RPMs | Ratings (out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimix Model VCL 100 | $1,422.70 | 8.25 | No Vibration | N/A |
| Silamat S6 | $668.95 | N/A | 4,500 | N/A |
| CM-II Trituator | $749.95 | N/A | 4,000 | 5 stars (Net32) |
| Bader Amalgamator | €234.64 | N/A | 4,200 | 5 stars (Dentaltix) |
| Ultramat 2 | $669.00 | N/A | 4,600 | N/A |
Table 2: Comparison of features
| Model | Compatibility with Capsules | Safety Features | Programmable | Design | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimix Model VCL 100 | All tested designs | Safety switch | Yes | Lightweight | Little |
| Silamat S6 | Popular capsules of all sizes | “Figure-eight mixing pattern” | No | Round shape | N/A |
| CM-II Trituator | Today’s modern capsules | Class II classification, Manual on-off switch, Removable cover | Yes | Digital display | Noiseless |
| Bader Amalgamator | Any popular capsule | Lock cover, Class II classification | No | Simple functions | Silent |
| Ultramat 2 | Latest capsule designs | Micro-switch safety features, Touch control | Yes | Robust construction | Low |
Amalgamators, also known as trituration, are comprised of two primary components. These components are the claw-like clasp for holding the capsule containing the materials of the filling compound to be mixed. The figure-eight motion ensures that the material is rapidly moved between the two ends of the capsule while allowing the pestle to perform its work effectively. These systems are largely designed to fit conveniently on countertop spaces in your practice comfortably.
When looking for an amalgamator, it’s important to consider a number of features available with these devices. The range, quality, and number of these functions they contain will help you determine if it’s capable of meeting your clinic’s needs. The following features are central to the performance of the device, and an understanding of them will aid in the evaluation of possible choices.
Features:
- Multiple Timing Settings – A proper mixing time is necessary to triturate the desired material properly. Too little time will result in an under-triturated mix typified by a dull and crumbly appearance, while over-trituration will result in a wet, soupy mix that won’t set properly. The more flexible your time settings, the more accurately you can hone in on a perfectly triturated mix.
- Easy to Clean (Design) – As with all devices in your practice, the amalgamator needs to be easily cleaned and designed with this in mind. As a result, the simplest overall designs, without difficult-to-reach nooks and crannies, are preferred.
- Low Power Indicator (Ensure Proper Mixing by Ensuring proper power availability) – A sufficient and consistent degree of power is necessary for the device to accomplish its task. If the available power to the device should dip for any reason, it’s possible that it will not triturate the materials properly. A low power indicator will alert you if the device cannot get sufficient electricity to function, saving material and time as a result.
- Quiet Operation/Low Vibration – With its presence in your dental practice, quiet operation and low vibration are essential elements. Loud devices make the environment less comfortable for your patients and staff, while high vibration can result in damage to the device, furniture, and other equipment.
- Multiple Mixing Speeds (rpm) – Not all mixtures are triturated at the same rate or RPM. Having the option to manipulate the device’s vibration level means you can tailor your results to suit your needs and the mixture being triturated.
- Suitable for all Capsules – While once only intended for the mixing of amalgam material, modern devices are able to mix ionomers, glass, and polymer mixtures, for use in fillings as well. As a result, most devices can hold round-ended amalgam materials and ionomer capsules with their protruding nozzles.
- Auto-Stop safety features – Given the extreme RPMs employed to mix the device and the potential harm that could come from interacting with the device while in operation, auto-stop safety features are an essential element of the device. In most cases, this appears as a feature that causes the device to stop functioning when the lid is opened.
- Warranty And Customer Service – Even the best functioning device is of limited use if it doesn’t have a company that backs it with a solid warranty and customer service. When you have a malfunction or need a device replaced quickly, the ability to get help when you need it will limit the impact this instance has on your practice.
Below we’ve compiled a list of amalgamators that are popular with those in the dental industry according to some reliable sources. Each has been evaluated for having the necessary features and a company with a solid reputation for backing its customers.
1. Optimix Model VCL 100 by Kerr Restoratives and SDS
Product Description
The Optimix Model VCL 100 by Kerr Restoratives and SDS is a programmable, computerized amalgamator designed for efficient and consistent mixing of dental alloys, temporary filling capsules, and oral cements. Lightweight yet powerful, it offers advanced features to streamline dental material preparation.
Product Overview
The Optimix amalgamator features a user-friendly 3-touch keypad system with LCD display, allowing easy entry and customization of mixing programs. It comes with pre-programmed settings for standard capsule designs and can accommodate a wide variety of dental materials. Designed for safety and reliability, the Optimix operates with minimal vibration and low noise, enhancing the working environment. Its lightweight construction at 8.25 pounds, combined with robust internal circuitry, ensures it meets a full range of clinical mixing needs.
Key Features
- Programmable 3-touch keypad with LCD display
- Safety switch for operator protection
- Pre-programmed settings compatible with tested capsules
- Minimal vibration and low-noise operation
- Lightweight design at 8.25 pounds
- Reliable internal circuitry for consistent mixing and timing
- Easy electrical connection setup
Common Applications
- Mixing dental amalgam alloys
- Preparing capsules for temporary fillings
- Mixing oral cement materials
- Use in general and specialty dental practices
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kerr Restoratives and SDS
- Weight: 8.25 lbs
- Display: LCD
- Programming: Keypad entry
- Capsule Compatibility: Compatible with all tested capsule designs
- Noise Level: Low
- Vibration: Minimal
- Safety Features: Built-in safety switch
- Product Type: Programmable Amalgamator
- Power: Easy-to-connect electrical setup
Customer Ratings
- Safco Dental Ratings: N/A
Customer Feedback
- Exceptionally smooth mixing without noise or vibration.
- Easy to program and adjust for different materials.
- Lightweight yet powerful enough for heavy daily use.
- Reliable, consistent performance for a wide variety of dental applications.
Pricing
- Safco Dental Price: $1,422.70
2. Silamat S6 by Ivoclar Vivadent
Product Description
The Silamat S6 by Ivoclar Vivadent is a universal mixer designed to handle a wide range of predosed dental materials, including amalgams and glass ionomers. Combining sleek design with reliable performance, the Silamat S6 delivers consistent, homogenous mixing with minimal effort.
Product Overview
Engineered for simplicity and effectiveness, the Silamat S6 features a smooth, round shape for easy cleaning and maintenance. It utilizes a patented “figure-eight mixing pattern” to ensure thorough blending of materials. With an average rotation speed of 4,500 RPM, the Silamat S6 provides fast, even mixing and is compatible with all popular capsule shapes and sizes. Its patented technology and robust performance make it an essential tool for busy dental offices seeking reliable material preparation.
Key Features
- Universal mixing capability for amalgams, glass ionomers, and other materials
- Patented figure-eight mixing pattern for homogenous results
- Round design for easy cleaning
- Average rotation speed of 4,500 RPM
- Compatible with capsules of various shapes and sizes
- Reliable, office-ready performance with patented Silamat technology
Common Applications
- Mixing dental amalgam capsules
- Preparing glass ionomer restoratives
- Mixing other predosed dental materials
- Use in general and specialty dental practices
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ivoclar Vivadent
- Rotation Speed: Average 4,500 RPM
- Mixing Pattern: Figure-eight
- Capsule Compatibility: Universal (fits popular sizes and shapes)
- Product Type: Dental Capsule Mixer
- Cleaning: Easy due to rounded shape
- Patented Technology: Silamat mixing system
Customer Ratings
- Safco Dental Ratings: N/A
Customer Feedback
- Produces consistently smooth, homogenous mixes.
- Very easy to clean and maintain.
- Reliable performance for a wide range of materials.
- Compact design fits easily into busy clinical setups.
Pricing
- Net32 Price: $654.00
3. CM-II Trituator by GC Corporation
Product Description
The CM-II Trituator by GC Corporation is a user-friendly capsule mixer featuring both manual and pre-programmed time modules. Designed for efficiency and ease of use, it delivers consistent, noiseless mixing of modern dental capsules while offering a durable and ergonomic construction.
Product Overview
The Capsule Mixer CM-II is engineered with practical features, including a large digital display for clear visibility, a removable cover for easy cleaning, and simple operation through a manual on-off switch or pre-set modes. With a mixing speed of 4,000 RPM, it provides reliable, homogenous results. Its ergonomic and durable design minimizes the risk of accidents, while visual capsule insertion guides make the mixing process intuitive and efficient for dental teams.
Key Features
- Manual and pre-programmed mixing time modules
- Large digital display for easy monitoring
- Removable cover for quick and easy cleaning
- Noiseless operation at 4,000 RPM
- Ergonomic, durable design for enhanced safety
- Capsule images for easy insertion instructions
- Compatible with today’s popular dental capsules
Common Applications
- Mixing dental amalgam capsules
- Preparing glass ionomer and other predosed restorative materials
- Use in general dentistry and specialty practices
- Efficient mixing with minimal noise for clinical environments
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: GC Corporation
- Rotation Speed: 4,000 RPM
- Mixing Modes: Manual and pre-programmed
- Display: Large digital screen
- Cleaning: Removable cover for easy access
- Compatibility: Modern dental capsules
- Product Type: Dental Capsule Mixer
Customer Ratings
- Net32 Ratings: 5 stars (1 review)
Customer Feedback
- Extremely quiet operation and easy to use.
- Reliable mixes with simple controls.
- The removable cover makes cleaning quick and easy.
- Helpful design features like capsule images for simple insertion.
Pricing
- Scott’s Dental Price: $749.95
- Net32 Price: $719.90
4. Bader Amalgamator by Bader
Product Description
The Bader Amalgamator offers a straightforward, efficient solution for mixing dental capsules, delivering silent and stable results. Designed with simplicity and safety in mind, it features a plastic fork clevis system and easy-to-use manual controls, making it a dependable choice for busy dental clinics.
Product Overview
Built for consistent performance, the Bader Amalgamator operates at 4,200 RPM to ensure uniform mixing of a wide range of capsule types. Its plastic fork clevis allows for easy and secure capsule attachment. Classified as a Class II device for enhanced electric shock protection, it also features a lockable cover to prevent accidental opening during operation. The simple function display and manual buttons provide clinicians full control over mixing times and quality, combining reliability and ease of use.
Key Features
- Plastic fork clevis system for easy capsule attachment
- Operates at a consistent 4,200 RPM
- Silent and stable mixing performance
- Class II electrical classification for enhanced safety
- Lock cover for added security during mixing
- Simple function display with manual control buttons
Common Applications
- Mixing dental amalgam capsules
- Preparing restorative material capsules in clinical environments
- Daily use in general and specialty dental practices
- Clinics needing a reliable and affordable amalgamator
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Bader
- Rotation Speed: 4,200 RPM
- Capsule Attachment: Plastic fork clevis system
- Electrical Classification: Class II (protection against electric shock)
- Display: Manual function buttons
- Product Type: Dental Capsule Mixer
Customer Ratings
- Dentaltix Ratings: 5 stars (1 review)
Customer Feedback
- Easy to operate with reliable mixing results.
- Very quiet and stable during use.
- Lock cover provides added safety during operation.
- Simple controls make it perfect for daily clinical use.
Pricing
- Dentaltix Price: €234.64
5. Ultramat 2 Amalgamator by SDI
Product Description
The Ultramat 2 Amalgamator by SDI is a high-performance capsule mixer known for its robust construction, reliable consistency, and advanced safety features. Designed for modern clinical environments, it delivers powerful mixing with low vibration and is compatible with the latest capsule designs.
Product Overview
Recognized with a five-star Editor’s Choice award from The Dental Advisor in 2011, the Ultramat 2 is engineered for durability and precision. It operates at 4,600 oscillations per minute, supported by a 16-second microprocessor cycle and a crystal-controlled oscillator for highly accurate timing. Its touch control system simplifies operation, while built-in safety features such as a micro-switch immediately stop movement if the lid is lifted. Additionally, the design accommodates infection control protocols and promotes energy efficiency, making it a practical and reliable tool for any dental practice.
Key Features
- High output of 4,600 oscillations per minute
- 16-second microprocessor and crystal-controlled oscillator for precise timing
- Touch control system for easy operation
- Low vibration for quieter, more comfortable use
- Micro-switch safety feature stops operation when lid is lifted
- Compatible with modern capsule designs
- Supports infection control with dental disinfectant compatibility
- Low energy usage for cost efficiency
Common Applications
- Mixing dental amalgam capsules
- Preparing restorative material capsules in clinical settings
- Daily use in general and specialty dental practices
- Practices prioritizing infection control and energy efficiency
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: SDI
- Oscillation Speed: 4,600 oscillations per minute
- Cycle Time: 16 seconds
- Timing Control: Crystal-controlled oscillator
- Safety Features: Micro-switch lid interruption
- Capsule Compatibility: Fits latest designs
- Product Type: Dental Capsule Mixer
- Awards: Five-star Editor’s Choice, The Dental Advisor (2011)
Customer Ratings
- Net32 Ratings: N/A
Customer Feedback
- Extremely durable with smooth, reliable operation.
- Touch controls make it easy to use even during busy schedules.
- Highly accurate timing with low vibration for better comfort.
- Supports modern infection control and saves on energy costs.
Pricing
- Net32 Price: $669
