Handpieces see a lot of use throughout the day at any dental practice. These tools require a certain amount of care and maintenance to remain working properly and reliably. Handpiece failure can cause complications during a patient procedure and could be costly to fix as well.
You and your dental clinic staff can work toward preventing handpiece failure by putting into practice a routine of maintaining and handling dental instruments with attentiveness. It is crucial to knowing the common causes and the prevention of handpiece failure to prevent malfunction in the future.
Clean, Sterilize, and Lubricate
Over the course of use, dental handpieces accumulate dust, debris, and bio-matter that must be cleaned away properly. Leftover debris may build up or harden over time, causing the bearings to perform sub-optimally and wear down quickly. After cleaning an instrument with a cloth or brush, it should be properly sterilized according to the manufacturer’s specific instructions. As an additional consideration, regular lubrication of your handpieces is recommended for slowing the degradation and wear of the bearings.
Proper Care and Maintenance
Practitioners make a few common mistakes with dental handpieces during use and maintenance. Using the wrong handpiece for the job or running a handpiece without a bur are both ways of mishandling dental equipment, leading to damage or accidents. It could also be a mistake to use cheap replacement parts and bearings, where premium handpiece parts may be a better investment for their durability and longevity.
Handpiece failure can be costly in terms of both time and money at your dental practice. Learning the best ways to clean and care for equipment is vital to preserving tools and cutting costs. Prioritizing quality equipment and parts is another way of decreasing your need for lengthy and frequent maintenance over the course of business.