Proper maintenance of dental equipment not only helps alleviate the possibility of sudden problems, but can also help to extend the life of the equipment. 

Most dental assistants don’t walk around with a tool belt on their waists, but in many offices when a piece of equipment does not work properly it’s the assistant that often springs to action. In addition to all of the clinical responsibilities they have — from patient care to ordering supplies to administrative responsibilities — equipment maintenance is an important skill for dental assistants.

At beginning of the day:

1. Turn on the vacuum and dental air compressor systems as well as the master water switch.

2. If applicable, turn on the nitrous-oxide and oxygen tanks.

3. If you are still using a film-based processor, turn it on and replenish the fixer and developer.

4. Fill the ultrasonic with the appropriate amount of fresh water and solution.

5. Check the water levels in the sterilizer(s) and turn it on.

If using self-contained water bottles, fill and use appropriate waterline maintenance product.

Flush water through handpieces and air/water syringes.

Throughout the day it is important to lubricate and sterilize handpieces; lubricate prophy angles (if not disposable), contra angle, and nose cones between patients; disinfect operatory equipment after each patient; flush handpiece waterlines between each patient; and check the water levels in self-contained water bottles.