Many of our applicants ask us which items they need for the bench test and where to purchase them. Some purchase used items to save money, but these often fail to meet their expectations. To help, we have created the ultimate list of must-have items, along with optional ones and those required for specific bench tests.
Air Compressor (must-have)
The first essential item you will need is an air compressor, but there is no need for an expensive or high-end model. Air compressors work by compressing atmospheric air to store potential energy in a tank for later use.
Smaller tanks, such as 1-gallon models, require frequent pressure buildup, causing the compressor to run longer and generate more noise. While larger compressors are more efficient, they can be costly and heavy. We recommend an oil-free compressor with a tank capacity between 5 and 10 gallons.
If you live in an apartment, choose a quiet portable compressor with a noise level of 60 dBA or lower. If you live in a house, a pancake compressor is a more affordable option, though it is louder. You can reduce the noise at your prep station by using a long hose and placing the compressor in a garage or away from your prep room.
Air Compressor Accessories (must-have)
To connect the compressor to the turbine unit, you will need the following attachments if they are not included with the compressor. It is important to ensure that the attachments are compatible with your specific compressor and turbine unit models. If you are unsure which attachments to use, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional.
- 3/8″ Air hose (50 feet) or (1oo ft)
- 1/4″ FNPT female coupler on Amazon
- 1/4″ Quick-connect FNPT female plug on Amazon
- 1/4″ to 3/16″ Adapter fitting on Amazon
- Sealant tape on Amazon
Turbine Unit (must-have)
You will need a turbine unit connected to the compressor, which allows you to control the air pressure delivered to the handpiece. Without a turbine unit, operating a handpiece is not possible. The turbine unit must be compatible with your specific handpiece. The most common turbine units are available in 2-hole or 4-hole configurations.
High-speed Handpiece (must-have)
A professional-grade handpiece set that lasts for years can be expensive. To save money, consider purchasing a few off-brand handpieces instead of a professional set. If you already have a handpiece from your practice, you may need an adapter to connect it to the turbine unit. When buying handpieces in the United States, consider selecting models with LED lights to improve visibility during preparations. Please note that the number of holes in the handpiece must match the number of holes in the turbine unit.
You may need an adapter if your old handpiece is not compatible with the turbine unit:
Burs (must-have)
Different preparations require different types of burs. Be sure to purchase enough of each type, especially carbide burs, as they become dull after multiple uses and should be replaced.
- FG 330 Carbide Bur on eBay (x50)
- FG 245 Carbide Bur on eBay (x50)
- FG 57 Carbide Bur on eBay
- FG 556 Carbide Bur on eBay
- 847KR-016 (C) Diamond Bur on eBay (x10)
- 8847KR-016 (F) Diamond Bur on eBay (x5)
- 856-016 (C) Diamond Bur on eBay (x10)
- 8856-016 (F) Diamond Bur on eBay (x5)
- 859-010 (C) Diamond Bur on eBay (x10)
- 878K-012 (C) Diamond Bur on eBay (x10)
- 379-014 (C) Diamond Bur on eBay (x5)
- 379-014 (F) Diamond Bur on eBay (x5)
- 877-010 (C) Diamond Bur on eBay (x10)
- 8877-010 (F) Diamond Bur on eBay (x5)
- KS-0 Diamond Bur on eBay
- KS-0F Diamond Bur on eBay
- FG 7901 Carbide Bur on eBay
- Pointed white stone (Polishing bur) on eBay
Note: Not all of the burs listed may be necessary for every bench test. However, it is strongly recommended to have an adequate supply of each type to ensure sufficient practice for any bench test.
Typodonts (must-have)
Different schools use different typodonts for the bench test, including Columbia, Kilgore, and Acadental. Since each typodont has unique tooth material and contacts, it is crucial to practice your preparations on the exact model that will be used in your specific bench test.
For each typodont, you have the option to purchase a genuine model (made by the brand manufacturer with higher quality and price) or a generic version (produced by off-brand companies at a lower cost with varying quality). We provide options for both to accommodate different budgets.
- Columbia 860 series typodonts (genuine or generic on Amazon)
- Kilgore Nissin (genuine or generic on Amazon)
- Acadental ModuPRO One (M300) (genuine or used on eBay)
Mounting Pole (must-have)
You also need to mount your typodont to a pole so that you can attach it to a table or desk. You can purchase one from Amazon or eBay.
Teeth (must-have)
To maximize your practice, ensure you have an adequate supply of teeth that are compatible with your typodont.
Other Instruments (must-have)
- Dental mirror on Amazon
- Dental explorer on Amazon
- Dental probe on Amazon
- Enamel hatchet 17/18 (10-6-14) on AG Store
- Mesial margin trimmer MT29 on AG Store
- Distal margin trimmer MT28 on AG Store
- Egg burnisher on eBay
- Diamond Cleaning Stone on AG Store
Dental Loupes (optional)
You may also consider purchasing dental loupes for practicing bench tests. In most cases, you are allowed to use them during the test session. After acceptance, you will need to invest in professional loupes that cost several thousand dollars. For now, it is best to save money.
Composite Restoration (optional)
Some schools may require a composite restoration for the bench test. In this case, you will need a composite gun, composite capsules, and other necessary instruments.
- Composite gun on Amazon
- Composite capsules on eBay
- Composite condenser and paddle on Amazon
- Bonding agent on eBay
- Microbrush on eBay
- Curing light on Amazon
- Dental lab safety glasses on Amazon
Composite Polishing Kit (optional)
- Composite polishing cups & points on Amazon or eBay
- Composite polishing cups, discs, & points on eBay
- Composite polishing discs on eBay
- Rubber polishing wheel on Amazon
Amalgam Restoration (optional)
Some schools may require an amalgam restoration for the bench test. If so, you will need an amalgamator, amalgam capsules, and the appropriate hand instruments. You likely will not need more than 50 capsules for practice, so avoid purchasing an excessive amount.
Matrix Systems (optional)
- Tofflemire band on eBay
- Tofflemire retainer on eBay
- Wooden wedges on eBay
- Garrison clamps (one blue and one orange) on eBay
- Garrison wedges (one blue and one orange)on eBay
- Garrison bands on eBay
- Garrison plier on eBay
Scrubs (optional)
The majority of programs require applicants to wear scrubs for the bench test, so you may want to purchase one or two sets. You may also consider anti-wrinkle FIGS scrubs, which are more expensive but durable enough for use in dental school after acceptance.
- Scrub set for Women on Amazon
- Anti-wrinkle FIGS scrub top for Women on Amazon
- Anti-wrinkle FIGS scrub pants for Women on Amazon
- Scrub set for Men on Amazon
- Anti-wrinkle FIGS scrub top for Men on Amazon
- Anti-wrinkle FIGS scrub pants for Men on Amazon
Business Attire (optional)
Some programs schedule the interview on the same day as the bench test. For these programs, you may wear formal attire all day or, if possible, change into scrubs for the dexterity test. While personal preferences vary, it is recommended to wear black, gray, or navy suits.
- Suit set for Women (black) on Amazon
- Suit set for Women (navy) on Amazon
- Suit set for Men (black) on Amazon
Note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
