Abstract: A dental handpiece which can be adapted to different types of rotatable joints without great structural changes comprises a handpiece design having a sleeve-shaped end section which receives an insert part. The insert part has an outer shape that is matched to the interior of the sleeve-shaped section of the handpiece but will have an inner contour which is matched to a particular plug member of a particular type of rotatable joint. Thus, by changing the sleeve insert parts, the handpiece can be modified to receive a different type of plug member of a different type of rotatable joint.

Abstract: A recognition system is provided for tools, such as drill bits and milling bits, which are insertable into dental treatment instruments, each of the tools having an optimum speed at which the tool must be rotated for effective treatment. In the recognition system, each tool is provided with a code corresponding to the speed or speed graduation necessary to effectively use the tool. The system also includes a reader which reads the code on each tool, and generates identifying signals in accordance with the code, which are supplied to an evaluation logic. The logic converts the signal from the reader into control signals for the drive motor used to operate the tool, as well as indicator signals for visually displaying information relating to the tool currently in use.