How to Properly Maintain and Extend the Lifetime of KaVo Instruments
More than 50% of handpiece and contra-angle failures are caused byimproper cleaning and care. With afew tips from us, you will be able to extend the service life of your KaVo instruments and avoid the most common defects.
1. Chuck system
1.1 Rotating instruments with shafts intact
We always recommend that you use burs that are approved by KaVo, otherwise the instrument may suffer significant damage. Damage includes defects involving the chuck system or bur shaft.
1.2 Comply with dimensions for cutters/grinders.
For manufacturer information concerning the length, diameter, shaft shape and max. speed, please refer to the relevant instructions for use.
1.3 Removal of crowns and bridges/ separation of crowns
Bur manufacturers offer crown separators to suit different crown materials. Please comply with the speeds recommended by the bur manufacturer. In the case of straight- or cross-toothed crown separators, these are often lower than for diamondcoated crown separators.
1.4 Never leave the bur in the chuck after a treatment.
The chuck should not bear any load when stored, in order to prolong its service life. Storing instruments with burs in can lead to a risk of injury or infection.
1.5 Close the tensioning ring on the handpiece.
Never start operating a straight handpiece while the chuck is open because:
- The straight handpiece blocks.
- The chuck will block.
1.6 Never press the push button during operation.
Never press or wipe the push button on the turbine or handpiece/contra-angle while the instrument is rotating because this may cause:
- Excessive wear and tear on the drive/rotor
- Damage to the push-button/chuck
Never position the push-button close to the patient’s cheek. The friction between the push-button and the chuck system generates heat, which may cause burn injuries.
2. Ball bearings
Ball bearings must always be lubricated. Using other than original KaVo oils or applying insufficient oil to ball bearings causes excessive wear and tear and may lead to defects. To prevent any secondary damage, replace ball bearings regularly with original KaVo ball bearings.
3. Surgical instruments
Surgical instruments require special treatment. After each use, clean the instrument immediately under lukewarm running water to remove all external soiling. Wherever possible, dismantle the instrument and clean the inside under lukewarm running water as well.
4. Damage after dropping
4.1 Avoiding damage caused by dropping instruments
Visually inspect the instrument at the preparation stage for any changes in order to protect both the instrument and the patient.
4.2 Listen for the click when attaching instruments to the coupling.
The instrument must be heard to click into place on the motor/turbine coupling. Otherwise, it may not be secure and could fall and be damaged.
5. Disinfection
The instrument must never be immersed in a disinfection/ultrasonic bath because:
- The ball bearings might be destroyed
- Other technical defects involving the instrument may occur Instruments can be manually disinfected. If excessive disinfectant or a non-approved disinfectant is sprayed onto the instrument or the motor/turbine coupling, malfunctions may occur.
6. Care
- Automated care with the QUATTROcare PLUS
- Manual care with KaVo Spray
- Chucks must be treated at least once a week with KaVo Spray or in the QUATTROcare PLUS.
7. Storage
Always use an instrument stand to store instruments after cleaning them. Any excess residual oil will be able to drain away. Otherwise, the instrument may become too hot when used again, leading to further damage to ball bearings.