When it comes to the maintenance of dental equipment, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Not only does maintaining dental equipment properly improve the durability and longevity of your investment, but it also helps you avoid costly repairs that can be costly for both you and your office. Preventive maintenance of dental equipment is usually done once every few months by cleaning and lubricating all moving parts of the equipment. It also includes checking for leaks and cracks and replacing worn components as needed.
The most common preventive maintenance tasks include greasing and greasing moving parts, such as motors, gears, bearings, etc. When choosing a storage location, the general rule is to avoid storing them in direct sunlight, as it can cause damage from exposure to UV rays. Most manufacturers recommend storing all instruments or supplies outside during the day. The recommended storage temperature should not exceed 40°F (4°C).
In addition, some materials may discolor and become brittle with prolonged exposure to light. It's always good practice to check for cracks or damage before using any dental equipment or instrument, as this will help avoid costly repairs in the future. If you notice any signs of wear, corrosion, or anything else that is out of place, contact the manufacturer immediately. Sometimes, you might be tempted to do the repairs yourself because they seem simple enough or because you don't have time for routine maintenance. However, if something goes wrong during surgery, you could end up causing more harm than good.
For example, fixing a loose cable to the handle can cause the motor inside to overheat and burn out, which will cause an even greater problem. Applying the wrong type of lubricant to the dental drill can make it easily slip out of the hand while being used in an operating room. Such incidents can cause serious injuries to both the patient and the surgeon. Of course, the best way to avoid breakdowns or repairs is to keep dental equipment under regular maintenance. Calibrating a unit ensures that all parts work optimally, improving efficiency and reducing downtime.
It also prevents costly repairs due to faulty components or inaccurate settings. For example, regular maintenance of dental drills helps prevent overheating and allows for longer use between restarts. Sterilization equipment has always been important, but with infection control protocols constantly changing, it's now more important than ever. Routine cleaning is essential and a general check-up is recommended at least once a year. Around the dental table should be the anesthesia machine, patient monitoring equipment, heating devices, intravenous fluid pumps, and trays for dental instruments.
This is also the most cost-effective way for your dental office to avoid costly dental equipment repair. We've compiled a proven checklist for preventive maintenance of dental equipment for most, if not all, of the usual maintenance tasks and cleaning tasks in dental offices. Dental Resource Asia offers articles, news and information from independent sources for the entire dental team. Dental instruments, instruments and equipment are an expensive investment and every dental office must have a team that knows the proper care and maintenance. The maintenance of dental equipment and the sterilization of manual parts and instruments must be carried out on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis to ensure a high-performance and safe dental practice for both patients and employees.
Tips for Maintaining Dental Equipment
Maintaining your dental equipment is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance.Here are some tips on how to properly maintain your dental supplies:
- Grease: Grease all moving parts regularly with a high-quality lubricant.
- Storage: Store all instruments or supplies outside during the day in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
- Check: Check for cracks or damage before using any dental equipment or instrument.
- Calibrate: Calibrate your unit regularly to ensure optimal performance.
- Clean: Clean sterilization equipment regularly.
- Checklist: Follow a proven checklist for preventive maintenance of dental equipment.
