Clinical Corner: Information on Dental Procedures
Sterilizing Burs
CONSIDER SINGLE USE FOR MAIN OPERATORY CARBIDES TO INSURE:
- A consistent, fast cutting bur which saves valuable time
- Greater patient comfort
- Reduced sterilization cost
STEPS TO PROPERLY STERILIZE TUNGSTEN CARBIDE BURS
CLEANING
STEP 1. Wear gloves when handling contaminated instruments. Pre-soak carbide burs in a container of soapy water to loosen debris. Ultrasonic systems may also be used to loosen debris in burs, however burs should be separated from each other in a bur block during immersion to prevent damage.
STEP 2. Brush away remaining debris using a SS White stainless steel wire brush (order no. 26040) and rinse burs under running water.
STEP 3. After rinsing, dry burs thoroughly by placing them on absorbent towels. Pat dry all surfaces.
STERILIZATION
Proper sterilization of carbide burs is extremely important because it eliminates the threat of cross
infection of patients and staff with communicable diseases.
1. Dry Heat Sterilizers 170°C (340°F) for 1 hour. This method, when used according to manufacturers
instructions, will not corrode or dull carbide burs.
2. Steam autoclaves 121°C (250°F) for 20 minutes @ 15 p.s.i. Steam autoclaves will effectively sterilize
carbide burs; however, potential for corrosion is present.
AVOID cold sterilizing solutions as they contain oxidizing agents which may weaken carbide burs.
AVOID worn chucks which may cause bur slippage and/or vibration that can lead to breakage.
