Why the Purchase Channel Matters for a Clinical Input Device
A foot mouse is not a generic accessory. It sits in the operatory, interfaces with your charting software, and replaces the assistant who would otherwise sit at the keyboard. The channel you buy through determines who you call for setup help, how warranty questions are handled, and whether your team gets guidance matched to its software.
An authorized distributor sells the product with the manufacturer's backing. That means you get the current Dental R.A.T. 2.0 and a clear path to manufacturer support. The company states that support, training videos and downloads are part of the package. Phone support is available Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.
What You Are Buying: The Dental R.A.T. 2.0
The Dental R.A.T., short for Remote Access Terminal, is a foot-operated mouse that gives hands free access to periodontal charting, intraoral cameras and digital X-rays. Its control layout is simple:
- Toe buttonmoves the on-screen arrow, just like a regular mouse.
- Four input buttonsenter charting numbers 1 through 8 and perform the right click.
- Heel buttonworks as the left click.
- Audio feedbackrepeats each number through computer speakers or a headset as it is entered, which supports patient education.
The 2.0 is smaller than the original metal unit and made of hard plastic. Its buttons are easier to press and its mouse speed is adjustable. It can run wirelessly over radio frequency or be plugged in with a USB cord. It also has a plug for a private headset.
Compatibility to Confirm Before You Order
The Dental R.A.T. connects by USB and the computer sees it as another mouse. No additional software is needed for the foot mouse itself, so any software that responds to a hand mouse should respond to the Dental R.A.T. The company lists these programs as working with it:
- Dentrix, Easy Dental and EagleSoft
- Open Dental, SoftDent, PracticeWorks and PerioExec
- MacPractice, Daisy Dental, Alta, Genesis, Dentech, Maxim, Panda Perio and XL Dent
- Florida Probe software
Software-specific training videos exist for the most commonly requested programs. If yours is not covered, the device still works. The company simply has not recorded a video for it.
The optional audio feedback program is a separate download. It is available for Mac and for 32-bit and 64-bit Windows 10, with MD5 values published so your IT staff can verify file integrity. Confirm that your operatory computers have speakers or a headset connection if you want spoken readback.
Evaluate Before You Buy
You can evaluate the product at no cost in several ways:
- Request a free demo.The company offers demos of the Dental R.A.T. foot mouse. Call to arrange one.
- Watch the introduction video.The founder and inventor walks through the history, basic functionality and benefits in about five minutes.
- Read the user manual.The Downloads section includes basic installation and startup instructions.
- Run the numbers.The site provides an ROI calculator. The product's value comes from letting one person do a job that used to take two staff members, from recorded periodontal depths that support more accurate billing for periodontal maintenance, and from full documentation at every appointment.
- Compare alternatives.The Comparison page lays out the pros and cons of voice activated charting, automated probes and the foot mouse.
A Practical Buying Checklist
- Identify your charting and imaging software and confirm it accepts standard mouse input.
- Count the operatories where charting happens without an assistant.
- Decide whether you prefer wireless operation or a USB connection.
- Decide whether you want audio readback through speakers or a private headset.
- Ask about warranty length and the options for extending it.
- Plan a short practice period. The company suggests about 30 minutes of playing with the buttons and cursor to get comfortable.
Other Hands Free Products from the Same Company
If you want a foot mouse without the number buttons, Boomer the Foot Mouse is a wireless, fully functional foot mouse for doctors' operatories. It works with PC, Mac or tablet over Bluetooth. The company also offers hands free suctioning through the Blue Boa high volume suction adapter, which is used for saliva and water control during ultrasonic scaling and for isolation during sealant placement.
Contact Us to Buy or Ask About Distributors
The fastest way to get a purchase question answered is to talk with the team directly. Call toll-free at 877-278-0061 or email bky.logue@gmail.com. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, and the office is closed Saturday and Sunday. Ask about purchasing options, demos and warranty coverage, and request a software-specific training video if yours is not yet available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I confirm a seller is an authorized Dental RAT distributor?
Start with the Distributors listing on the company's website, then verify by phone. Call 877-278-0061 or email bky.logue@gmail.com and ask whether the seller you are considering is authorized. A short check before you pay protects your access to manufacturer support, training resources and warranty service.
Should I buy directly from the manufacturer or through a distributor?
Either route can work. What matters is that you receive the current model, know exactly what is in the box, and can reach the manufacturer for support. Whichever channel you use, ask what accessories are included, such as the headset for private audio, how warranty claims are handled, and who to call for setup help.
What information should I have ready when I call to order?
Have these details on hand so the order is right the first time:
- The name and version of your periodontal charting and imaging software.
- The number of operatories that will use a unit.
- Whether you prefer wireless operation or a USB cord.
- Whether you want audio readback through speakers or a private headset.
- Whether your computers run Mac or Windows 10, since the audio feedback download differs by platform.
Can a dental school or multi-operatory practice order more than one unit?
Yes. Practices commonly equip more than one operatory, and one dentist's testimonial describes having three terminals in the office. The company also states it wants to help hygiene and dental schools get units into their clinics. For multiple units, call the team to discuss your operatory count and ordering options.
Do training and support come with a purchase?
The company describes free support, training videos and downloads as part of the Dental R.A.T. experience. These include an introduction video, software-specific videos, a user manual and the audio feedback installers. If your software has no dedicated video, call and ask for individualized tips or request a video for your program.
What should I check before buying a used or unlisted-seller Dental RAT?
Confirm which version it is. The original metal unit, the 2.0 and earlier audio feedback software each differ in features and installation steps. Ask the company whether support and warranty coverage apply to that specific unit, and confirm it includes the accessories you need. Calling the manufacturer first avoids surprises.
Can customers outside the United States buy the Dental R.A.T.?
The company serves both US and international customers. US and Canadian customers can call the toll-free number, 877-278-0061. International customers can email bky.logue@gmail.com to ask about availability and ordering. Include your location and your charting software in the message so the team can respond with accurate information.
Can I try the Dental R.A.T. before I buy it?
Yes. The company offers free demos of the Dental R.A.T. foot mouse. Call 877-278-0061 during business hours to arrange one. Watching the introduction video and reading the user manual beforehand will help you get the most from the demo.
Do I need to install software to use it?
The foot mouse itself needs no software. You plug it into a USB port and your computer treats it as another mouse. The audio feedback program, which speaks the numbers as you enter them, is a separate optional download for Mac and Windows 10.
Does it work with Dentrix, Eaglesoft and Open Dental?
Yes. The Dental R.A.T. works with Dentrix, Eaglesoft and Open Dental, as well as PracticeWorks, SoftDent, PerioExec, MacPractice and Florida Probe software. Because it behaves as a standard mouse, it works with any software a hand mouse can operate.