Taking care of your dental handpieces isn’t just about keeping them clean- it’s about protecting your investment, ensuring safety, and maintaining high-quality care for your patients. Whether you’re using high-speed airotors or low-speed motors, here’s everything you need to know to keep them running smoothly and efficiently.
1. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Always begin with the user manual. Each handpiece has its own design, and the manufacturer's instructions include the most accurate and model-specific cleaning, lubrication, and sterilization steps. Skipping these can cause damage or void your warranty.
2. Pre-Cleaning: Don’t Skip This Step
Right after use, gently clean off blood, saliva, and debris using a mild enzymatic cleaner and a soft brush. Focus on external surfaces and the chuck area. Avoid soaking or immersing the handpiece in water or solutions, as it can damage internal components.
3. Lubrication: Essential for Longevity
Use a high-quality handpiece lubricant—brands like Unispray are commonly recommended. Apply a few drops into the correct air/water ports as per manufacturer instructions. Important: Never autoclave a handpiece with oil inside—always run or purge it first to remove excess lubricant.
4. Sterilization: Do It the Right Way
Most handpieces are autoclavable. Ensure the handpiece is clean, dry, and free of oil before placing it into the autoclave. Follow the exact temperature and pressure settings recommended for your specific model to prevent internal damage.
5. Flushing: Clear Out the Residue
After lubrication or sterilization, flush the handpiece by connecting it to your dental unit and running it for 20–30 seconds. This helps remove leftover oil, debris, and moisture.
6. Storage: Safe and Clean
Once your handpieces are clean and dry, store them in a UV Chamber to maintain its sterility. Use clean storage pouches or handpiece stands to avoid contamination or damage
7. Use Only Distilled Water
Especially for airotor handpieces, always use distilled water. Tap water may contain minerals or contaminants that can clog internal parts and reduce performance over time.
8. Air Pressure Matters
Keep the air pressure at or below 0.2 MPa (approx. 2 bar). Exceeding the recommended limit can overwork the turbine, leading to premature failure or inconsistent performance.
9. Don’t Press the Push Button While Rotating
Avoid pressing the bur release button while the handpiece is spinning. Doing so can cause internal damage or misalignment of the chuck mechanism, leading to faulty bur retention.
10. Never Force the Bur Against the Tooth
Let the bur do the cutting. Applying too much pressure by pushing the bur against the tooth can damage the turbine or reduce handpiece lifespan. Always use a light touch.
11. Avoid Excessive Heat Outside the Autoclave
Keep handpieces away from heat sources like sterilizer vents, windows, or hot instruments. High temperatures can warp delicate internal components and reduce handpiece efficiency.
12. Use Protective Barriers
Disposable sleeves or autoclavable barrier wraps reduce contamination risks and make post-use cleanup easier. Be sure to follow proper disposal and sterilization practices for these items.
13. Ensure Clean Air and Water Sources
Poor-quality air or water can introduce debris or bacteria into your handpiece. Regularly maintain filters and waterlines and ensure your dental unit is functioning properly.
14. Handle with Care
Treat handpieces like precision instruments—because they are. Don’t drop them, knock them against hard surfaces, or toss them into drawers. Always use padded storage or transport cases.
15. Staff Training is Key
Make sure everyone who handles handpieces—dentists, hygienists, assistants—is trained in proper care. Hold refresher trainings and share updated protocols as needed.
16. Inspection Before Use
Before every use, give your handpiece a quick visual check. Look for cracks, unusual wear, or loose components. If something feels off, don’t use it until it’s inspected or repaired.
17. Keep Accurate Records
Track each handpiece with a maintenance log: include model numbers, dates of service, lubrication, sterilization cycles, and any issues noted. This helps with warranty claims and scheduling routine servicing.
Quick-Reference: Do's and Don’ts for Airotor Handpieces
- Use only distilled water
- Use high-quality lubricant oil (e.g., Waldent Unispray)
- Do not press the push button while the bur is rotating
- Do not exceed 0.2 MPa air pressure
- Do not push the bur forcefully against the tooth
- Do not autoclave with oil inside the handpiece
Conclusion
Good maintenance habits protect your equipment and improve clinical outcomes. With a little daily effort and regular servicing, your dental handpieces will last longer, perform better, and support a safer environment for both your team and your patients.