According to Allied Market Research data, the global dental handpieces market size was valued at US$1.6 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach US$2.7 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 5.5% from 2022 to 2031.
The growing demand can be attributed to several factors, including increased overall demand for dental treatment, technological advancements, and growing investment in dental care in developing nations.
Because of the increasing need for dental handpieces, professionals are forced to think how best to not only invest in equipment, but also invest time into understanding maintenance to extend the life of their dental handpiece equipment. Here are some commonly used procedures for equipment maintenance.
Maintenance best practices for your dental handpiece
Lubricate the handpiece – Lubrication oil helps prevent wear on the handpiece’s internal components. Be sure to use enough oil to complete the lubrication process and prevent damage to components such as ball bearings.
Flush the handpiece – While this may seem contradictory to the previous point, it is crucial that you do NOT over-oil the handpiece. After the handpiece has been lubricated, flush it to expel excess oil and prevent clogging or build-up of debris and contaminants that can affect the bearings.
Clean fibre-optic surfaces – using appropriate solutions helps maintain the quality of light, which can be affected by debris build-up.
External cleaning – Clean the outer casing of the handpiece with the appropriate cleaning tool, and be sure not to submerge the handpiece in any liquids.
Sterilisation – Dental handpieces should be thoroughly sterilised between patients as normal practice to prevent the spread of infection.
Correct storage – Store the handpiece in a cool, dry area, ensuring it has fully cooled and is ready for use. Do not speed up the cooling process by running it through cold water, as this can damage the handpiece.
Each handpiece manufacturer will have specific maintenance requirements for their products; ensure you are aware of their approved processes.