Usage instructions
Orthodontic tools will serve for many years, working flawlessly and without reservations, only if we use and maintain them properly. Since processes such as regular cleaning and sterilization cause the destruction of tools, following the rules below will extend the actual „life” of the instruments.
Tools that are not in working order (corrosion, blunted cutting edges, etc.) should be serviced immediately to avoid permanent damage that cannot be repaired.
In addition, cutting tools should be sharpened approximately every six months.
- Only cleaned instruments can be sterilized. All foreign particles (e.g. blood, saliva) will “bake out” during sterilization and remain on the surface of the instrument.
- Moisture is the most common cause of corrosion. Instruments should be thoroughly dried before sterilization.
- Instruments may only be immersed in solutions with a neutral pH and those that contain anti-rust agents before sterilization. High pH causes brown streaks to appear on the surface of the instrument. Black streaks are caused by the use of acidic solutions (low pH) for pre-disinfection. It should also be remembered that the more minerals the water contains, the greater the subsequent risk of corrosion.
- Distilled water should be used to dilute disinfection solutions and to rinse instruments. Tap water contains various amounts of minerals and impurities that cause corrosion and discoloration of instruments. In addition, impurities in tap water can cause deposits or scale to appear on the surface of instruments.
- Regularly oil the joints in the tools using products designed for this purpose.
Sterilization instructions
- Use pre-cleaning solutions in appropriate solutions (neutral pH and containing rust inhibitors).
- Use only freshly prepared solutions and adhere to bathing times and temperatures.
- Rinse instruments thoroughly using distilled water.
- Dry instruments thoroughly after rinsing, if possible with compressed air.
- Place all instruments in the open position for sterilization and so that they do not touch each other.
- Oil where necessary.
The most common causes of stains on tools
Tip corrosion
Too „strong” cleaning solution, too low pH of the solution (acidic), high mineral content in the water. Use a solution with a neutral pH containing detergents and agents that inhibit subsequent rust formation.
Blunting of cutting edges
Occurs especially when cleaning with ultrasound, where high-frequency microvibrations occur. Sufficient protection in this case is to arrange the tools separately and open them so as to avoid metal-to-metal contact.
Black stains
pH below 6.0, solution pH too acidic.
Brown stains
pH above 7.0, pH too alkaline.
Multi-colored stains
Too high temperature.
Orange-brown stains
Stains similar in color to rust are caused by impurities contained in the water used.
Dark brown spots
Inadequate removal of blood from instrument surfaces (bioburden)
