What is the primary function of coolant control in dentistry?

The primary function of coolant control in dentistry is to manage the water supply for cooling the tooth during preparation. When dental procedures are performed, particularly when drilling or cutting hard tooth structure, heat is generated due to friction. This heat can damage both the tooth and the surrounding soft tissues. The coolant, which is generally water delivered through the dental handpiece, helps to dissipate this heat, preventing thermal injury and ensuring patient comfort. By controlling the flow of this coolant, the dental team can optimize the cooling effect and maintain an appropriate temperature during procedures, thus safeguarding the integrity of the tooth and enhancing the efficiency of the treatment.