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Nu-Bird Suction Mirrors are the ultimate essential instrument that today’s dentists, hygienists and assistants are using in office for suction, viewing and retraction.
FAQs
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Suction Mirror User Tips
Please Read before using your new mirror.
When developing the new skill of using HVE, Retraction, Indirect viewing with Ultrasonic scaling and air polishing procedures, it is important to allow time and repetition to train both hands to work simultaneously. This is a brand new advanced skill where one is managing three-four tasks at once. Start by following these simple steps.
STEP 1:
PROPER SET UP

Plug the 9.5mm bore metal curved end adapter into HVE.

Loop hose as shown and affix Ergo Clip onto top of curved metal hose end adapter (The excess hose is lifted in an upward position allowing it to fountain and reduce drag and pull on the wrist and arm)

Point curved metal adapter and hose toward patient’s head. Adjust hose tubing to an ergonomic working length.
POINT HOOK AND HOSE
TOWARD PATIENT’S HEAD
TOWARD PATIENT’S HEAD

Insert Nu-bird Mirror into other end of Hose Adapter until it “Clicks in” and freely rotates without falling out.
STEP 2:
MIRROR PREP -
ALWAYS BE SURE TO PREP THE MIRROR FACE
ALWAYS BE SURE TO PREP THE MIRROR FACE
VERY IMPORTANT!
If water beads on the mirror face there are residues present which have to be removed.

Water commonly tends to bead-up on the surface of the mirror inhibiting clear viewing capability due to residues present on the mirror face.
To solve this problem simply wet mirror lens, sprinkle lightly some dry Knox gelatin on the reflective surface. With gloved finger, swirl in circular motion, wait couple seconds for granules to dissolve, mist off with light air water spray and GO!!

This technique works efficiently as a surfactant allowing the mirror to remain clear without obstruction of view. When water beads on the mirror surface, it is because there are residues present associated from sterilization, patient lip products, and oils from water spray in the lines of high speed handpieces. It is very important to make sure the mirror is rinsed well after ultrasonic bath and gently wiped before placing in autoclave bag for sterilization.

Before Prep:
Beaded Water

After Prep:
Water Spreads Out
It is also recommended to wet the mirror with a good biofilm/saliva coating from patient’s buccal mucosa and under tongue. Use as a retractor, then suction and lastly as a mirror.
STEP 3:
ULTRASONIC TIP SELECTION AND SETTINGS

It is very important to determine and use the correct insert for the level of deposit removal. Place ultrasonic insert into the handpiece adjust to correct power and water volume levels. Water should “aerosol” and drip, not stream."
STEP 4:
Determine whether the cause is Tissue or Tooth.
ALWAYS ASK PATIENT IF THEY HAVE SENSITIVITY ON THEIR TEETH OR GUMS PRIOR TO THE START
OF PROCEDURE.
OF PROCEDURE.

For Tooth Sensitivity
due to erosion, recession,
and abfractions; we recommend pre-polishing with NuPro Extra Care which contains Novamin. Use a soft exterior webbed prophy cup to burnish polish into root surface. Polish buccals first then lingual, suction only do not rinse off until completed.
This works very well in most cases.
For Tissue Sensitivity
due to gingivitis or periodontal inflammation; we recommend using a periodontal anesthetic gel designed for scaling. Place around sulcus prior to procedure. Suction only do not rinse out for a couple minutes. This works very well and patients are comfortable through the whole procedure.
STEP 5:
HVE SUCTION WITH RETRACTION OF TONGUE AND CHEEK

Retract Tongue and suction with MIRROR FACE
placed against the tongue using DIRECT VISION
Turn on suction, adapt ultrasonic tip to tissue and work with both devices starting on the distal lingual of the lower second molar working slowly toward the anterior of the mouth.

Retract the Cheek and suction with the mirror face placed against mucosa using DIRECT VISION
Start on the distal buccal of the lower molars and work with both devices moving forward toward anterior teeth.

Retract the Cheek and suction with the back of mirror face still USING DIRECT VISION
Start at distal buccal of maxillary 2nd molar and use both devices to scale the linguals moving the mirror slightly back and forth aspirating the aerosolized water and any residual water in the back of the mouth.
Very Important to develop a good saliva/ biofilm coating on the mirror face which also aids in keeping mirror clear through whole procedure.
STEP 6:
YOU'RE NOW READY TO LEARN HOW TO USE INDIRECT VISION, RETRACTION,
SUCTION ALL TOGETHER WITH AN ULTRASONIC SCALING DEVICE
SUCTION ALL TOGETHER WITH AN ULTRASONIC SCALING DEVICE

Place the BACK side of the Suction mirror against the buccal mucosa close to the distal of the second molar in upper arch. Use INDIRECT VISION
to view adaptation of the ultrasonic tip work with both devices moving toward the anterior region of the mouth.
Walk the mirror
moving it slightly back and forward collecting any residual water and manage aerosols.
Keep the mirror face wet with water spray and at the same time watch the ultrasonic tip placement working carefully toward the anterior region of the mouth.

Because dental suction systems all vary in power and performance, during this phase it can be helpful to add a saliva ejector, curved like a cane and placed in the back of the mouth to manage any residual water. This allows the clinician to focus attention and gaining skill learning to work using both hands with both devices simultaneously.



When working on anterior linguals using INDIRECT VISION, intermittently as needed “dip down” placing the back of the mirror against the tongue near the distals of the lower molars and aspirate any residual water.

When working on the anterior facials flip the mirror to retract the lips with the face of the mirror.

This will better control aerosols generated from the ultrasonic tip and help keep excess splatter off the patient's face and clinician.

Patients can comfortably close down slowly on the first ½ edge of the mirror “like a spoon” to remove residual water efficiently from the back of the throat. Because of the patented hole design, there is a constant positive air flow which prevents back flow to occur.
CHANGING THE MIRROR FACE
2. Make certain the mirror face moves forward before turning the KEY Gently rotate KEY 90º to the right and left back and forth until you see the mirror face dislodge and raise up. On brand new mirrors sometimes the spring inside is a little tight so one may need to depress the mirror lens between your thumb and forefinger in a Pinching fashion on the top part of the lens, while rotating the Key to aid in dislodging the coin.
BE CAREFUL NOT TO USE EXCESSIVE FORCE OR JAM AND TWIST
THE KEY OR OTHER ITEMS INSIDE THE MIRROR HANDLE AS DAMAGE CAN OCCUR TO THE
INNER SPRING AND MIRROR HEAD!
6. Nu-Bird mirror replacement coins come in two sizes.
Size #4 rhodium front surface mirror coin which supports legacy NuBird mirrors before April of 2020. Also,
Size #3 High Definition lens in all Nu-Bird mirrors manufactured after June of 2020 and distinguished by the engraved number 3 on the back of the mirror head housing.
**Caution:
1) **NEVER
place #4 mirror coin replacements in a mirror head which has the #3 engraved on back as damage will occur thus voiding warranty. 2) **NEVER
place #3 coins in a #4 sized mirror housing which could result in minor tissue trauma.
CLEANING, DISINFECTION AND STERILIZATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
TREATMENT AT POINT OF USE
Disconnect suction mirror from HVE Hose Adapter and prepare for reprocessing, cleaning and sterilizing NuBird Suction Mirror is required before patient use.
Cleaning/Disinfection
Rinse outside and into suction mirror ports with a full stream of cool water for a minimum of 15 seconds. Remove mirror face coin using mirror removal Key.
Prepare ultrasonic bath/instrument washer following manufacturers instructions for dental enzymatic/cleaner used.
Place suction mirror and mirror face coin into prepared ultrasonic bath or instrument washer and run cycle for 10 minutes.
Once cleaning is completed, remove and rinse with water for a minimum of 20 seconds to remove any solution present. Inspect the NuBird mirror and mirror face coin for visible signs of debris and if needed, repeat cleaning procedure.
Install mirror face coin into clean, dry NuBird mirror head and prepare for sterilization.
**Both units can be sterilized separately.
Warning: NuBird Inc. suggests using soft filtered water for rinses. It may not be possible to clean/disinfect the suction mirror if contact was made with fluoride varnish. Damage may happen using metal instruments to pry out mirror coin or metal bristle brushes to clean the suction mirror. Use only approved sterilization bags/pouches for sterilization.
Maintenance:
Replace mirror coin if scratched or damaged and sterilize. Inspect mirror housing handle unit for bent tabs or damage, which could cause minor tissue trauma. Damaged mirror units should be removed from service.
Contact NuBird Inc. for more detailed instructions.
Sterilization:
Following the steam sterilizer instructions, place bagged NuBird Suction Mirror into the autoclave and process for the following minimum cycles.
Sterilization Cycle | Minimum Temperature | Minimum Cycle Minutes |
---|---|---|
Gravity Steam
- Silver Raven Mirror - Stainless Steel Mirror |
121°C (250°F) | 30 Minutes |
Pre-Vacuum Steam (Dynamic)
- Silver Raven Mirror |
132°C (270°F) | 4 Minutes |
PRODUCT CARE
Mirrors need to be placed in the center of the autoclave away from sidewalls and heating elements. The HVE silicone adapter hose can either be autoclaved after each patient or processed the same standards as a normal dental HVE hose.

Nu-Bird inc. recommends flushing of the hose with a non-corrosive ph balanced evacuation cleaning solution, wipe down with FDA grade aseptic wipes and allowed to dry. If desired, barrier bags can be used to cover the hose fitting where Mirror inserts and over the standard HVE port/valve where hose connects if autoclaving between patients is not an option.

The metal curved hose end adapter which inserts into the HVE valve, polymer Hose rest and Ergo Clip should be removed from hose tubing prior to autoclave cycle.

*Ergo Clip in photo to the left.

On the hose end fitting where NuBird mirror inserts, one can gently swab inside with a dental disinfectant on a cotton swab to remove any visible debris prior to flushing the lines. This is an optional step one can take to avoid damage to the internal spring and o-ring.
It is recommended weekly lubrication of the o-ring with a dental grade silicone lubricant. Caution:
Never remove hose fitting on the end where mirror inserts. Damage will occur to internal spring.
The O-Ring inside of the hose end where mirror connects can easily be replaced when worn out. Measurements: 1/2 OD X 5/16/ID X 3/32 thickness. Replacement O-rings can be purchased in a Hose Repair Kit at nu-bird.com or by calling 425-584-7206.

In rare instances, discoloration could occur on the silicone hose and mirrors due to chemical residues from high acidic or corrosive aseptic solutions. All hose parts need to be cleaned with a hospital grade ph balanced disinfectant and wiped dry. Attach the hose on the Hose Rest Clasp, allowing the hose to hang down when not in use.
Hose Replacement Parts
Ergo Clip
Discover our range of precision-crafted dental tools designed for optimal performance.
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Hose Rest
Explore our specialized instruments that enhance dental procedures and patient care.
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O-rings
Our dental kits are meticulously crafted to meet the needs of modern dental practices.
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TECHNIQUE, TIPS AND TRICKS
- For best ergonomic positioning, we recommend sitting between 11:00 and 1:00 chair position. If the operatory does not allow this positioning, then turn patient’s head to the side for better access.
- KEY: Ergonomically, the Ultrasonic unit should always be as close to the dominant hand as possible and Suction (HVE) always on non-dominant hand’s side.
- Place Saliva Ejector in the back of the mouth while learning to use system. It is not necessary but some offices have weak suction systems so this may helpful when developing your new skills.
- IT is easy to retract with either side of the mirror in order to view and manage the water. Just rotate the mirror like a standard mirror to move about in the mouth.
- The mirror can also be flipped and angled sideways to inhale a broader amount of aerosols from both front and back sides when working on upper anteriors. This works great for air polishing.
- Use the suction mirror instead of standard mirror to avoid fogging when hand scaling in the mouth. Also great for use during standard exams, adjusting occlusion or tough to view and access CLV fillings.
- Use mirror’s suction instead of saliva ejector for polishing with prophy-angle to remove excess saliva.
- Use Suction Mirror instead of HVE for sealant placement, air polishing and laser procedures.
IN MOUTH SUCTION MIRROR PLACEMENT
Patients can comfortably close down slowly on the first ½ edge of the mirror "like a spoon" to remove any residual water in the back of the throat.
There is no concern of backflow due to the patented hole design. There remains a constant and continuous HV air flow making backflow impossible.
There is no concern of backflow due to the patented hole design. There remains a constant and continuous HV air flow making backflow impossible.
PATIENTS WHO TEND TO GAG EASILY WITH ULTRASONICS
Simply add an additional saliva ejector bent at an angle to fit in the posterior corners of the mouth. This helps to remove additional moisture from aerosols with the water spray.
ASPIRATE WATER MIST MAY CAUSE CHOKING
Be sure to tell the patient not to breathe through their mouth. Breathing through their mouth may aspirate water mist which can cause choking or coughing
PERFECTED AND DEVELOP NEW SKILLS
Learning to use both hands simultaneously when working in the mouth is a brand new skill. Success with this system highly depends on the clinician’s spatial skill level and the ability to use high volume suction with indirect vision and retraction.
AVOID LEAVING THE SUCTION MIRROR IN THE SAME POSITION FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME
In rare circumstances, elderly patients or those with xerostomia, the buccal mucosa can dry out and may get stuck to the front or back side of the suction mirror. This happens because the suction mirror has been left in the same position for a long period of time. The HV suction is very powerful, adjust the lever on the HV to a lower level if needed to reduce suction power.
USE STANDARD HVE TIP WITH NU-BIRD HOSE
To use Nu-Bird hose with standard HVE tip, simply insert the Nu-Bird swivel HVE connector fitting into the gray hose end fitting until it clicks and rotates freely, then insert HVE tip into connector port. Use the modified pen grasp to hold HVE and rotate between fingers for better angulation.

Standard HVE System
*Notice how the HVE is held with hand, which causes fatigue and leads to poss. RSI
*Notice how the HVE is held with hand, which causes fatigue and leads to poss. RSI

Nu-Bird HV Ergonomic Adapter
Allows free rotation and is held with modified pen grasp. Better control of aerosols and ergonomics.
Nu-Bird Mirror System Products
Silver Raven Mirror
The Silver Raven
series of Nu-bird Mirror is feather light and weighs just 13 grams. This model is stronger, quieter, high in air velocity and the mirror face is replaceable when worn.
This one has it all!
This one has it all!
Stainless Steel Mirror
The Nu-Bird Suction Mirror
provides high volume suction with strong retraction with clear fog free view to those hard to see areas in the mouth. Designed for longevity and also more cost efficient to use.
Silicone HV
Adapter Hose
Adapter Hose
This high grade silicone adapter hose offers a swivel feature on the end where the mirror plugs into which allows the mirror to rotate effortlessly when moving about in the mouth thus making it very ergonomic to use. The curved hose adapter end easily plugs into HV evacuator port. The U- shape design prevents the hose from crimping.


Ergonomic Design
Balanced lightweight design reduces strain on arm and wrist. It’s not only form, function and beauty all-in-one.
Independent dental practitioners are pioneers in the forefront promoting access to care for those who would otherwise have no access. The Nu-Bird, formerly known as Hammer Head, High volume Suction mirror provides a means to provide comfortable treatment for both patient and provider.
Our superior designed Nu-Bird Suction Mirror offers a balanced lightweight design which makes it ergonomic to hold thus reducing strain on arm and wrist. It’s not only functional, but looks cool too!
The Nu-Bird Suction Mirror, formally Hammer Head”, is the ultimate suction/viewing/retraction instrument for dentists, hygienists and assistants. It combines two essential pieces of equipment, mouth mirror and high volume suction, into one easy to use device.
Suction holes are on the front and back of the mirror. The holes on the front are in direct contact with the reflective surface and are what keeps the water and debris off the mirror and out of the way for clear fog free viewing. The holes on the back won’t plug with tissue and bog down lessening the suction power of the HVE.
The strong suction capacity is the level of a straight high vacuum tip which efficiently captures the aerosols and water debris. Patients love this mirror because of its efficacy in thorough evacuation of the water keeping them from feeling like they are drowning when clinicians use the ultrasonic or other HV water spray.
The Nu-Bird design deflects oral tissue away from the suction ports making it perfect for simultaneous retraction and suction. The mirror works efficiently in keeping the cheek or tongue out of the way. The suction ports won’t harm soft tissue like other suction devices because of its patented hole design. This mirror can fully adapt to both high and low suction delivery systems.
Clinically tested since 2008 in the following adverse conditions: Thick cheeks, large thick tongues, small mouth opening, see the distal of third molars, blood and saliva flow and all special needs patients.
This mirror outperforms all other similar devices, making it the perfect companion for use during ultrasonic scaling procedures, sealants, class V fillings, water-laser therapy and air polishing.
The mirror weighs 17 grams (about the same as a 4r4L instrument) and feels very lightweight.
We have added a HVE ergonomic Hose Adapter which is sterilizable and has a swivel feature that allows the mirror to rotate effortlessly when moving about in the mouth. The hose is lightweight, flexible and made of very high-grade silicone which can be autoclaved repeatedly. This accessory helps you can get the most from your new device.
Proudly Made in the USA
This mirror saves valuable time, money and allows clear indirect viewing thus raises the bar in the standard of care being provided.
Specifications:
The mirror head is 1 inch in diameter by .23 inch thick. The handle is 6 inches long overall and 3/8 inch at its thickest and .25 at its thinnest. The mirror head holds a #3 High Definition mirror face lens is which is the same size as the old standard #4 dental mirror.

Features and Benefits
• Clear view while ultrasonic scaling difficult to access areas
• Efficiently removes pooling liquid on the mirror face and in the mouth
• SRP time cut in half
• Accurately place sealants in 1/3rd the time over traditional methods
• Perfect companion for water laser therapy
• Saves chair time and extra appointments with increased production
• Strong and steady retraction device for thick tongues, cheeks and difficult patients
• Design deflects oral tissue away from plugging suction ports maintaining suction level
• Replaceable #3 high definition mirror lens offering brighter visibility
• Adapter hose allows free rotation, ergonomic design eliminates body fatigue
• Easily adapts to High or Low volume suction systems.
• Scientifically proven to reduce aerosols better than traditional methods
• High volume suction performance level offering wider air pathway for better aerosol capture
• Long life, eco-friendly, fully sterilizable
• Patient comfort.
When trying other similar devices on the market, don’t settle for an imitation.
Quantity is not a substitute for performance.
Our patented design is guaranteed to outperform all others in its class.

Adaptability
The Nu-Bird Suction Mirror is all-in-one ultimate high volume suction, viewing and retraction instrument that is both ergonomic, portable while offering mobility. It can go wherever you go - like having a personal assistant.
PICK ONE UP, PLUG IT IN AND GO!
So you can take it with you to most all types of clinic settings whether it is a dental office, mobile care unit, or onsite nursing facility. When using a Nu-Bird SM you can enjoy easier access on tough patents, clearer viewing and improved ergonomic positioning while performing dental cleanings and restorative procedures.
MIRROR PROVIDES COMFORTABLE HANDLING
This high-volume instrument used for suction, viewing, and retraction that is also an ideal companion to ultrasonic scaling and sealant placement procedures. Its head and eye placement allows for exceptional 180° viewing. The design provides steady retraction of thick tongues and cheeks, allowing suction ports clear access. Made of stainless steel, the ergonomic Nu-Bird Suction Mirror is lightweight, eco-friendly, and can be fully sterilized.
SEE CLEARLY REGARDLESS OF CONDITIONS
Nu-Bird Suction Mirrors hole placement enables one to see clearly in the dark watery environment of a patient's mouth without fogging.
Suction holes are on the front and back of the mirror. The holes on the front are in direct contact with the reflective surface and are what keeps the water and debris of the mirror and out of the way for clear viewing and from fogging up. The strong suction capacity is high volume level and efficiently reduces aerosols while managing pooling water without causing tissue trauma.

The Nu-Bird Suction Mirror, formally known as "Hammer Head", design deflects oral tissue away from the suction ports making it perfect for simultaneous retraction and suction. Patients love this mirror because of its efficacy in thorough evacuation of the water keeping them from feeling like they are drowning when clinicians use the ultrasonic or other HV water spray.
We have clinically and scientifically tested this mirror for over 13 years in the following adverse conditions: thick cheeks, large thick tongues, small mouth opening, access the distal of third molars, excess blood and saliva flow, special needs patients, semi supine elderly, tall linguoverted and braces. We can confidently say the Nu-Bird Suction Mirror performs better than all other devices in its class.
Features and Benefits
Nu-Bird Suction Mirror s are changing the way professionals practice dentistry
andallow clinicians to achieve a higher standard of care.
andallow clinicians to achieve a higher standard of care.
OUR PATENTED DESIGN IS GUARANTEED TO OUTPERFORM ALL OTHERS IN ITS CLASS
Clear view while ultrasonic scaling difficult to access areas.
Efficiently removes pooling liquid on the mirror face and in the mouth.
SRP time cut in half.
Accurately place sealants in 1/3rd the time over traditional methods.
Perfect companion for water laser therapy.
Strong and steady retraction device for thick tongues, cheeks and difficult patients.
Adapter hose allows free rotation, ergonomic design eliminates body fatigue.
Scientifically proven to reduce aerosols better than traditional methods.
Long life, eco-friendly, stainless steel, fully sterilizable.
Clear fog free view with Strong and steady retraction for thick tongues, cheeks and difficult patients.
Design deflects oral tissue away from plugging suction ports maintaining suction level.
Adapter hose allows free rotation; ergonomic design eliminates body fatigue and promotes career longevity.
Replaceable #3 High Definition mirror lens.
Easily adapts to High or Low volume suction systems.
High volume evacuation performance with high velocity and extra wide air pathway for better aerosol management.
Lightweight, long life, eco-friendly, fully sterilizable,
Made in America.
Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
Can cut SRP appointment time in half.
Accurately place sealants in 1/3rd the time over traditional methods.
Perfect companion for water laser therapy.
Saves chair time and extra appointments with increased production.
Patient comfort.
SOLUTIONS DESIGNED FOR DENTAL CLINICIANS
WE STRIVE TO DESIGN,
CREATE AND PROVIDE REAL
WORKING SOLUTIONS FOR
THE DENTAL INDUSTRY.
WITH NU-BIRD'S EYE VIEW,
WE'LL CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE!