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Dental Professionals Can Save Money By Reviewing Their Instrument Maintenance

By: Howard Bauer Jr

Implementing correct care for composite instruments is critical in maintaining
the quality of the outside appearance and promoting longer life. IMS is the best
method to care for the instruments holding them firmly between the silicone rails
in the cassette. The main reason of instrument scratching is through processing.
The exterior of the composite instruments, whether stainless steel or XTS, should
be protected to preserve the non-stick surface.
Chairside
For all types of composite instruments, always wipe off any composite material
from the working end with a 2x2 alcohol gauze even if the substance is not evident.
This will promote straightforward cleaning in the ultrasonic cleaner plus will avoid
physical removal of any dried out debris which can permanently impair the exterior
finish.
Note: The new generation composite materials cure very rapidly, even with the
operatory light. It is best to develop a routine to clean the operational ends of the
instrument within 5 minutes of use or the residue will stay and cannot be
detached without damage to the surface.
Cleaning
Composite Instruments may be cleaned by the standard dental office methods
- ultrasonic cleaning, automatic dishwashers, and manual cleaning. Enzymatic
or mild detergents are suggested for the ultrasonic cleaner. Keep the instruments
together with the procedural set-up for efficient processing.
Sterilization
All composite instruments can be heat sterilized by the customary methods, not
RESIN INSTRUMENTS. Resin instruments are easily maintained by ultrasonic
or programmed cleaning and steam sterilization. Avoid contact to temperatures
above 275°F (135°C). DO NOT expose to iodophors, gluteraldehydes or phenols.
ResinEight instruments are NOT compatible with dry heat or quick dry heat sterilizers.
It is highly suggested to use a neutral pH cleaning solution for STAINLESS STEEL
INSTRUMENTS. Although stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, it will
stain and oxidize when exposed to higher than recommended chemical concentrations
or certain chemicals.
Stainless steel should not be exposed to the subsequent chemicals: Sodium
Hypochlorite (household bleach), Tartaric Acid (stain and tartar remover), Aluminum
Chloride, Barium Chloride, Bichloride of Mercury, Calcium Chloride, Carbolic Acid,
Chlorinated Lime, Citric Acid, Dakin’s Solution, Ferrous Chloride,Lysol, Mercuric
Chloride, Mercury Salts, Phenol, Potassium Permanganate, Potassium Thiocyanate
or Stannous Chloride.
The subsequent chemicals should by no means be used with stainless steel: Aqua
Regia, Ferric Chloride, Sulfuric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid or Iodine ULTRASONIC INSERTS
Inspect, clean and sterilize (autoclave) prior to use. Inserts that have bent, altered or
worn tips or other compromising conditions should be removed from use.
To clean an ultrasonic insert, wash thoroughly or, if you choose, fully submerge in
a mild ultrasonic cleaning solution (ph 7-10.5). Arrange in ultrasonic cleaning unit for
7-10 minutes or 16-20 minutes if the insert is in a cassette. Thoroughly rinse the
insert with tap water and dry completely prior to sterilization.Sanitize ultrasonic inserts
in an instrument cassette (i.e. IMS instrument cassette) or paper pouch in a steam
autoclave.
Chemical vapor sterilization is unacceptable for SATIN SWIVELTM inserts. Quick
heat transfer sterilization and cold liquid/chemical sterilants are not recommended
and might void warranty. Avoid contact by way of corrosive chemicals such a chlorides,
sulfates and surface disinfectants. Do not expose to solutions containing phenols or
iodophors.
To enhance the o-ring life of ultrasonic inserts, to sustain a smooth swivel and to avert
water flow from the tip after release of the foot control, undertake the following steps
ahead of placing the insert into the handpiece: Grip the handpiece upright above the
sink, activate the foot control and rinse out the water line for 2 minutes. Fill total
handpiece with water. Lubricate the o-ring with water. Lightly twist the insert into
the handpiece until completely seated. For SATIN SWIVELTM inserts, activate the
foot control and rotate insert 2-3 times. 350° F / 177°C.
Steam Autoclave
Chemical Vapor
Dry Heat
Ethylene Oxide
Exception
Anodized Aluminum Goldstein and Felt Instruments cannot be ultrasonically
cleaned. These instruments should be separated from the set-up, cleaned with a
mild detergent under running water, and then returned to the set-up and heat
sterilized.


Article Source: http://www.bigfreearticles.com

Implementing correct care for composite instruments is critical in maintaining the quality of the outside appearance and promoting longer life. IMS is the best method to care for the instruments holding them firmly between the silicone rails in the cassette. The main reason of instrument scratching is through processing. The exterior of the composite instruments, whether stainless steel or XTS, should be protected to preserve the non-stick surface.

About the Author:
For more information on this and other dental instrument and handpiece repair issues visit us at http://www.bauerdental.org or http://bauer-dental-handpiece-repair.blogspot.com

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