Free printable checklist
Dental handpiece maintenance checklist
Proper cleaning, lubrication and sterilization after every patient is the best way to make a handpiece last. Print this page and post it in your sterilization area.
After every patient
- Wipe the handpiece with a disinfectant wipe to remove debris.
- Run the handpiece with a bur in place for 20–30 seconds to flush water and air lines.
- Remove the bur — never sterilize with a bur in the chuck.
- Lubricate with the manufacturer's recommended oil or spray.
- Run it again for a few seconds to spread the oil and expel the excess.
- Bag and autoclave (up to 135°C / 275°F unless the manufacturer says otherwise).
Daily
- Flush the waterlines at the start of the day per your unit's instructions.
- Check the fiber-optic lens for residue and clean it with alcohol.
- Listen for new noises — grinding or whining means worn bearings.
- Confirm the chuck grips the bur firmly.
Weekly
- Clean the chuck with a chuck brush or cleaning cartridge if your model allows.
- Inspect coupler O-rings and replace any that are cracked or flattened.
- Check water spray for even, full coverage.
Every 6–12 months
- Send high-speed handpieces in for inspection or a turbine rebuild.
- Rotate a spare into service so chairs are never down.
- Record each repair date so you can spot handpieces that fail too often.
Signs it's time for a repair
- !Loss of power or stalling under light pressure
- !Head gets hot to the touch
- !Grinding, rattling or high-pitched noise
- !Bur slips or wobbles
- !Weak, uneven or no water spray
- !Dim or flickering light
Always follow your handpiece manufacturer's instructions first. Questions? Call A+ Handpiece Repair at 858-208-3649.
Handpiece showing warning signs?
$99 turbine rebuilds, free prepaid shipping both ways.