Diamond Bur Design: Why Shape Isn't Just Cosmetic in Your Prep Times

You wouldn’t prep every tooth with the same mindset — so why use the same bur for every case?

This blog is your crash course in how the right bur shape shaves more than just enamel — it shaves chair time, stress, and even patient discomfort. Most importantly, it keeps you in control.

The Football Bur (FG 379-023): For Speed and Power

Ideal for bulk occlusal reduction and labial contouring, the football shape lets you access wide surfaces with fewer movements. Less repositioning means faster preps and less heat — and less patient fatigue.

Real World Use:
Dr. Claire from Phoenix reported shaving 6–8 minutes off every full-coverage crown prep after standardizing the 379-023 in her kits. Multiply that by 3–4 cases daily and the ROI is obvious.

Needle Burs (FG 392-016): Clean Margins in Tight Spaces

Needle burs offer unmatched access for interproximal work, especially IPR or fine detailing in veneers. They’re also preferred for crown margin finishing where visibility is limited.

One ortho-focused practice switched from discs to 392-016s and saw a 50% drop in enamel scuffing incidents on neighboring teeth.

Round-End Taper (FG 856 & 856L): The Finish Line Hero

This shape excels at smooth axial reduction and finish line creation. Especially in anterior aesthetic work, the 856 gives you natural emergence profiles with minimal adjustment.

Fun Fact:
A prosthodontist group in Boston now requires the 856L in all veneer cases — claiming it cuts post-cementation polishing time in half.