What type of handpiece operates at speeds of up to 450,000 rpm?

The high-speed handpiece is designed to operate at speeds of up to 450,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). This capability allows dental professionals to perform procedures that require precision and efficiency, such as cutting through enamel or preparing teeth for crowns and fillings. High-speed handpieces are primarily used for tasks that necessitate quick cutting and drilling, making them essential tools in a dental practice.

In contrast to the high-speed handpiece, slow speed handpieces operate at much lower RPMs and are typically used for finishing, polishing, or surgical procedures. Optic light handpieces incorporate a fiber optic system that enhances visibility during dental procedures, yet they are categorized as high-speed if they operate at similar RPMs. Laboratory handpieces are designed specifically for use in dental labs, often for grinding or polishing materials and may not reach the same high speeds as clinical handpieces. Thus, the distinct high RPM capability of the high-speed handpiece makes it the correct answer.