What is the foot control used in dental units to operate handpieces called?

The foot control used in dental units to operate handpieces is referred to as a rheostat. A rheostat is a type of variable resistor that allows the dentist or dental hygienist to adjust the speed of the handpiece hands-free, providing greater convenience and control during procedures. By pressing down on the rheostat, the operator can increase the speed, and releasing it reduces the speed, enabling precise operation based on the needs of the specific dental task at hand.

In contrast, other types of controls, such as pedals, switches, or levers, do not necessarily provide the same level of variability in speed control or functionality specific to handpieces. Pedals may serve various functions in different contexts but do not typically incorporate the fine-tuning capability that a rheostat offers. Similarly, switches often provide a simple on-off control without speed adjustment, and levers may not be designed specifically for the nuanced operation required in dental practices.