The EICHENKLINIK has built a global reputation as a centre of excellence in reconstructive dentistry and implantology. A significant part of the clinic’s surgical workflow is supported by W&H technologies — a choice driven by long-term clinical experience and reliability. Prof Dr Norbert Enkling, founder of the EICHENKLINIK, shares insights into his clinical practice and explains why W&H devices have become integral to his daily work.
Founded in 2014, the EICHENKLINIK is jointly run by Dr Enkling and his wife, Dr Johanna Enkling-Scholl, whose specialised orthodontic clinic complements the practice. Alongside clinical work, research and teaching play a central role in Dr Enkling’s professional activities. The clinic serves as an academic teaching practice for the Universities of Bern and Bonn, providing dental students with the opportunity to complete parts of their mandatory practical training in Kreuztal.
Dr Enkling’s academic involvement extends internationally. Since 2024, he has led the prosthetic implantology section at the Clinic for Reconstructive Dentistry and Gerodontology at the University of Bern, under the direction of Prof Dr Schimmel. He also holds a teaching position at the University of Bonn, where he heads the oral implantology and biomaterials research group within the department of dental prosthetics, propaedeutics and materials science, led by Prof Dr Stark.
A long-standing partnership with W&H
Dr Enkling’s experience with W&H devices dates back to 2007, when the first Implantmed unit was introduced into his practice. At the time, he had consulted colleagues and evaluated several implantology motors before making his decision. Features such as the integrated light were considered innovative, while automatic torque control and torque monitoring quickly proved their clinical value.
Today, the EICHENKLINIK works with the third generation of Implantmed units, and W&H systems have also been introduced into the university clinics in Bonn and Bern — both of which previously used equipment from other manufacturers.
Dr Enkling was first introduced to the Piezomed system through the bone-splitting technique and later adopted the associated extraction set for immediate implant placement. The device is also used for lateral sinus lift procedures. For many years, Piezomed was his instrument of choice for harvesting bone blocks, a technique that has since become less common.
“A large part of my surgical workflow is carried out with W&H products,” Dr Enkling said. “I wouldn’t want to be without them anymore.”
The value of integrated solutions
When W&H launched the Piezomed module, Dr Enkling adopted it shortly after its release. One of the key advantages for him was the ability to operate both Implantmed and Piezomed using a single bottle of saline solution — a practical and economically relevant feature in a high-volume surgical setting. The compact design and overall performance of the system further reinforced his decision.
At the EICHENKLINIK, the combination of Implantmed and a standalone Piezomed unit is used across two treatment rooms, while the main operating theatre is equipped with a surgical tower that integrates the latest Implantmed generation with the Piezomed module. The Bern clinic has also recently been retrofitted with Piezomed modules, ensuring consistency across clinical environments.
Performance, hygiene, and usability
For Dr Enkling, torque performance is one of the Implantmed’s most valuable features. Across all generations of the motor he has used, he has consistently observed reliable torque delivery, even at low speeds — a critical factor in implantology procedures.
Equally important is the hygienic design of the devices. “Everything is simple to clean,” he said, highlighting the well-thought-out construction. The handpieces and contra-angle handpieces also stand out for their smooth, elegant design, which supports both ergonomics and handling.
The integration of the Piezomed module via a plug-in system was supported by training from W&H. Despite the technical complexity, the commissioning process was smooth, and the interaction between devices proved intuitive. While establishing a routine took some initial adjustment, such as switching the foot control cable when operating both systems, features like automatic instrument detection quickly became indispensable.
“I wouldn’t want to work any other way now,” Dr Enkling added.
Reliability beyond the device
Beyond product performance, Dr Enkling emphasises the importance of reliable partnerships. Consistent customer support, direct contact persons and solution-oriented service are key factors in his continued trust in W&H. In cases where loaner devices were required, replacements were provided quickly and seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted clinical operations.
“For me, W&H is a reliable partner offering highly developed devices at a fair price,” he concluded. “I need to work reliably — and that is only possible with the right equipment.”
All images courtesy of W&H.
