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Common Handpiece Maintenance Mistakes

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Poor Autoclave Maintenance –  If the autoclave is not properly cleaned and maintained, buildup will occur that will contaminate the entire system, including the handpieces that are sterilized in it. Using a Chemical Wipe Down on a  Handpiece  Before Sterilizing –  This is not only redundant, but it may multiply harmful reactions when the handpiece is put through the high temperatures of an autoclave cycle. Using an Ultra Sonic Cleaner –  Handpiece should never be immersed into any fluids. Removing a Handpiece from the  Autoclave  Too Early –  Removing the handpiece before the drying cycle is complete or before the handpiece has cooled down will cause condensation buildup inside the handpiece which will lead to internal rust and the handpiece will be  ruined . Lubricating the Incorrect Hole –  The drive air tube is the only line that leads directly to the turbine or vital moving parts. The rest of the holes acts as exhaust, water, or chip air. Failure to Run
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Successful Endodontics in Your General Practice

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Successful  dental  endodontic treatment in the general dentist’s office is based upon proper case selection. Proper case selection will allow endodontics to be a profitable, enjoyable procedure and provide a valuable service to your patients that will build your practice. Failure to perform proper case selection will result in: 1. Frustration 2. Loss of patient confidence 3. Loss of practice revenue 4. Additional costs incurred with retreatment or repair of iatrogenic damage The American Association of Endodontists has prepared an assessment form to help clinicians evaluate the level of difficulty associated with  endo motor treatment to help the clinician decide when to refer. To summarize this assessment form, here’s a breakdown of the type of cases that are considered minimal, moderate and high difficulty level. MINIMAL DIFFICULTY 1. Pt is healthy, cooperative, minimal pain and/or swelling 2. Diagnostics are clear and pulpal/peripaical diagnosis
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Digital X-Rays Are Better For The Earth, AND Better For You

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DENTAL X-RAYS ARE AN important part of your oral health care. Among other things, they allow us to detect cavities and decay before they become bigger problems. However, old-fashioned, analog x-rays are not ideal for our patients, our dental office , OR our environment. The Hazards of Traditional X-Rays The development of old film x-rays required hazardous materials. For example: Silver: X-ray fixer has enough silver to warrant a “hazardous waste” label, and can’t legally be dumped into the water system. Lead: Lead is a dangerous neurotoxin. Discarded, it sits in the topsoil for years, is absorbed into plants, and enters our food system. Other Dangerous Chemicals: These include Ammonium Thiocyanate and Anhydride, both major irritants to eyes, nose, and respiration. That’s Why We Use Digital X-Rays First, digital x-rays eliminate the need for those harmful materials. But beyond that, digital x-rays are safer and more convenient for YOU! Digital x-rays cause 70-9
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