Dental handpiece failure is a common occurrence in dental practices. Following these steps to avoid them, can lengthen the lifespan of your dental handpieces. Dental handpieces are an essential tool for dentists and dental hygienists. They are used to perform a variety of dental procedures, including drilling, polishing, and shaping teeth. However, like any mechanical tool, dental handpieces can fail, leading to costly repairs and downtime. In this blog post, we will discuss the common causes of dental handpiece failure and how to avoid them.
Common Causes
How to Avoid them
Lack of Maintenance
One of the most common causes of handpiece failure is a lack of maintenance. Dental handpieces require regular cleaning and lubrication to keep them in good working condition. Failure to perform regular maintenance can cause dirt and debris to build up inside the handpiece, leading to reduced performance, increased noise, and failure.
To avoid this, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This will typically involve cleaning the handpiece after each use, lubricating it regularly, and replacing worn or damaged parts as needed.
Improper Handling
Dental handpieces are delicate instruments that require proper handling to prevent damage. Mishandling the handpiece can lead to bent or broken shafts, damaged turbines, and other problems that can cause the handpiece to fail.
To avoid this, it is important to train staff on proper handling techniques. This should include how to hold the handpiece, how to change and dispose of burs properly, and how to store the handpiece when not in use.
Overuse
Another common cause of dental handpiece failure is overuse. Using the handpiece for extended periods or performing heavy-duty procedures can cause the handpiece to overheat and damage its internal components.
To avoid this, it is important to use the handpiece only for its intended purpose and to follow the manufacturer’s recommended usage guidelines. It is also a good idea to invest in multiple handpieces to distribute the workload and avoid overuse of a single handpiece.
Poor Water Quality
Water is an essential component of dental handpiece function, as it cools the handpiece and removes debris during use. However, poor water quality can cause the handpiece to fail prematurely. Water that contains high levels of minerals, bacteria, or other contaminants can cause corrosion, blockages, and other problems can lead to handpiece failure.
To avoid this, it is important to use high-quality water that meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. It is also essential to regularly flush and clean the waterlines to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants.
Wear and Tear
Dental handpieces are subject to wear and tear over time, just like any mechanical tool. Over time, the handpiece’s internal components, such as the turbine, bearings, and gears, can wear out, causing reduced performance and eventual failure.
To avoid this, it is important to replace worn or damaged parts promptly and to follow the manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule. It is also a good idea to invest in high-quality handpieces that are designed for durability and longevity.
Dental handpieces are essential tools for dental professionals, but they require proper maintenance and handling to avoid failure. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance and usage guidelines, investing in high-quality handpieces, and properly handling and storing the handpiece, dental professionals can extend the life of their handpieces and avoid costly repairs and downtime. dental handpiece failure can cause significant problems for dental professionals during dental procedures. Dental professionals should ensure that they properly maintain and use their handpieces, and be aware of the common causes of handpiece failure. Regular maintenance and servicing can extend the life of the handpiece and reduce the risk of failure.
