What to Consider in Dental Handpiece Repair and Maintenance

August 31, 2020

The significance of a dental handpiece

A dental handpiece to a dentist is like a pen to an artist. Essential. A proper functioning dental handpiece can be the difference between a patient’s beautiful smile or a traumatized one. Therefore, it is critical that dentists and their staff easily recognize the state of dental handpieces used and maintain it in top working condition.

What is a dental handpiece?

The handpiece is a hand-held instrument commonly used in the following dental procedures:

  • Removal of decay in the mouth
  • Making changes to prostheses
  • Polishing fillings
  • Cosmetic dentistry

These mechanical instruments consist of parts that initiate rotational force (turbine) and provide power to its cutting instrument (dental burr). Most dental handpieces found in clinics incorporate elements providing a light source and cooling water-spray system to improve visibility and accuracy.

Why a dental handpiece malfunctions

A dental handpiece is a go-to instrument in standard treatment, and a well-maintained unit usually lasts longer than ten years. However, like most devices, an unexpected breakdown can occur, causing a handpiece to malfunction from improper maintenance or misuse. Below are the three most common mistakes that cause a handpiece to be defective:

  • Using a non-recommended substance to clean or wipe off handpieces.
  • Improper application of recommended lubricant.
  • Applying too much air pressure than what is suggested by the manufacturer

According to handpiece repair experts, these are all easily corrected by simply following the instruction manual that comes with a specific brand’s handpiece. Experts recommend letting the sterilizer run through the dry cycle entirely. Any excess moisture remaining on the handpiece should run through under cold tap water before the brushing and cleaning process takes place.

What to do with dental handpieces in case of repairs

There may be circumstances that a handpiece will be needing more than just maintenance and require repair. What would be the best option for dental offices that find themselves in this kind of dilemma?

The most practical and logical step is to reach out to a repair service center that supports a handpieces’ brand. Before getting in touch with a service center, a few factors about the repair quality should be considered:

  • Manufacturer-trained and Certified Technicians
  • Quick Turnaround time
  • Pick up and Delivery
  • Warranty

A service repair center should have the capability to assure their clients that their technicians are well-versed with each brand the center supports. Also, a repair center should return repaired handpieces looking and working like a newly purchased item, not more than two days upon receiving. The ability to pick-up and deliver to a client’s doorstep with a white glove approach reflects how a service center will take care of items in need of repair.

A special reminder when purchasing dental handpieces

When it comes to longevity and availability of parts, repair technicians strongly recommend that dental offices choose handpieces that come from a well-known brand. For them, investing in a handpiece that reduces any safety issue concerns will top cheap handpieces with a higher chance of frequent malfunction for the long term.

Reach out to Benco Dental

The significance of a dental handpiece in dental treatment is undeniable. Therefore, both dentists and their staff must always check the state of dental handpieces to ensure longevity and ease of use in the long run.

If you need more detailed information on repair, maintenance, and other services available for any of your dental equipment, get in touch with Benco Dental and let our representative guide you on the best options possible.

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