Home › Lists › Top 5 Best Capsule Mixers in Dentistry
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.
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
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 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 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
Related Reading: Top 10 Automatic Mixing Unit Replacement Parts in Dentistry | Top 10 Mixing & Intraoral Cartridge Tips in Dentistry
