W&H S-16 Angled Surgical Handpiece (1:2 Increasing Speed)

The S-16 is a 1:2 angled surgical handpiece designed to combine the access advantages of a contra-angle with the bur versatility of a straight handpiece. Its unique angulation improves visibility and ergonomics in posterior regions while maintaining compatibility with the standard 45 mm (44.5 mm effective) Ø 2.35 mm surgical bur assortment, giving clinicians access to a significantly wider range of burs compared to many contra-angle designs.

This design approach has driven increased adoption of the S-16 as a preferred alternative to classic straight surgical handpieces such as the S-11 and earlier angled models like the S-9, S-12, and S-15. The shorter bur shank provides greater stability, improved cutting control, and enhanced longevity of both the bur and the handpiece.

The S-16 is engineered for precise, efficient surgical workflows and reflects W&H’s focus on access, cutting performance, and hygiene in oral surgery.

Clinical indications

• Surgical procedures in the premolar and molar region

• Wisdom tooth extraction, including retromolar access

• Bone removal and tooth sectioning requiring improved posterior access

Why clinicians choose the S-16

The special angulation of the S-16 enables comfortable access and improved visibility in posterior surgical sites, particularly in the retromolar area. Compared with straight handpieces, it reduces hand and wrist strain. Compared with contra-angle handpieces, it preserves compatibility with the most commonly used surgical bur lengths.

With a 1:2 transmission ratio, the S-16 delivers high cutting performance and time-efficient bone removal. At motor speeds up to 40,000 rpm, the effective cutting speed at the bur reaches up to 80,000 rpm, allowing precise and efficient work on both tooth and bone.

Key features

• 1:2 transmission ratio for high cutting efficiency

• Angled surgical handpiece design combining straight and contra-angle benefits

• Accepts surgical burs and cutters Ø 2.35 mm

• Maximum permitted bur length: 45 mm

• Lever chuck for secure bur retention

• External spray cooling for effective temperature control

• Dismantlable design for thorough internal cleaning

• Scratch-resistant stainless steel construction for durability and long service life

• Thermo washer-disinfectable and sterilizable

Technical summary

• Gear ratio: 1:2

• Design: angled surgical handpiece

• Bur system: Ø 2.35 mm

• Maximum bur length: 45 mm

• Cooling: external spray

• Coolant volume: > 50 ml/min

• Maximum drive speed: 40,000 rpm

• Effective instrument speed: up to 80,000 rpm

• Coupling system: ISO 3964 (DIN 13940)

• Dismantlable: yes

Hygiene and maintenance

The S-16 can be fully dismantled without tools, allowing thorough internal cleaning to meet stringent surgical hygiene requirements. The handpiece is designed for thermo washer disinfection and steam sterilization, supporting consistent and reliable reprocessing between procedures.