DENTAL INSTRUMENT MAINTENANCE

Sterilization and Maintenance

Before each use of a dental surgical instrument, every instrument must be cleaned, sterilized, and inspected. Corroded instruments or ones that have wear to the blades, such as misalignment or dullness, should never be used.

With any stainless steel dental instruments, never expose them to chemicals and products that are not compatible with stainless steel. Do not use corrosive cleaning agents or abrasive cleaners.

Acceptable methods for sterilizing stainless steel include steam autoclave, chemical vapor, dry heat, and ethylene oxide.