Last month we started our Top Ten Tips list, where we review some our most popular and most helpful tips from past posts. We covered practice tips 10 through 6 and now we’ll finish up the list with our top 5 tips of all time!
#5 — Toggle Basics
Going back to the early days of Practice Tips, Issue #19 covered the basic workings of the versatile toggle valve. We discussed the different designs, functions, and principles of operation. We cover everything you could ever need to know about toggles.
Did you know that relieving toggles are often referred to as a “3 way" valve?
#4 — Cross-over
We have another two-part Practice Tip series in our 4th spot with cross-over (#50 and #51). They discussed how to determine if you have cross-over (rather than simple condensation, for example) and what to do about it once you know you’ve got it, including how to narrow down the source of the problem.
Did you know that cross-over can go through your lines and eventually affect the entire office, even the restroom plumbing?
#3 — ABC’s of ISO
Handpiece couplers have been standardized for decades. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO – the abbreviation is for the name in German, as it is based in Switzerland) sets the standards all handpiece manufacturers must follow. Issue #36 detailed the standardized couplers, including diagrams showing precisely how they work, in order to determine what will work with what you have in your office already. Our technicians say they refer customer to this issue more than any other one.
Did you know that all handpiece manufacturers make their handpieces with all types of couplers? A handpiece make or model will never indicate a coupler type.
#2 — Sterilizer Maintenance
Without sterile instruments, you’re unable and shouldn't be practicing dentistry. Issue #14 covered everything you and your staff need to do to keep your sterilizer working well and your office running. It was so popular, we reproduced it in a single sheet printable format, so you can post it in your sterilization area.
Did you know that most sterilizers have some sort of seal, as well as filters that need to be replaced annually? Many makes and models recommend even more frequent changing of seals than this.
#1 — Equipment Routine Maintenance
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and proper maintenance can prevent a whole host of problems. In issue #34 we published a complete list of routine maintenance steps to follow that will keep all of your equipment working and office up and running. Print and keep this list handy for staff to reference.
An easy trick to help you remember routine maintenance is to schedule it around holidays (also frequently a period of down time) or at tax time.
That completes our Top Ten practice tips, as of now. Be sure to bookmark our archive page for even more technical assistance and subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get new tips and specials every month. What are some tips that you have for other dentists?
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