Looking after your Stainless Steel Dental Equipment

There are over 150 grades of stainless steel, and some are more prone to corrosion than others. In general, the higher the chromium content, the less likely the steel will rust, but if it is too high the equipment will snap.

 After a lot of research, we believe we have come up with the best degree of chromium that will, with maintenance, not rust.

NO matter how careful we are Stainless Steel still needs to be maintained.

Although it doesn’t require a large amount of maintenance, stainless steel products can never be considered maintenance free.

Whatever the grade of stainless steel it is certainly susceptible to wear and tear. And if it is not properly maintained it can result in staining or discolouration. Brown stains are not rust and can be caused by using high pH detergents (by deposits of phosphate).  Black stains are often caused by use of low pH detergents (pitting may also result). Using a moist toothbrush and some bicarbonate of soda, and/or some vinegar, can work well to remove these stains. Sometimes boiling hot water will also assist.

 To get the most out of it, the surface should be kept clean. As long as the appropriate stainless steel was selected for its particular use, and that it is cleaned often and properly, there is no reason why it can’t have a long life and optimal performance. Also, the maintenance time and costs of stainless steel are generally quite minimal compared to other materials.

The Importance of Looking After Stainless Steel

The most important factor which can affect stainless steel is usually contamination and the build up of deposits on the surface. Often these contaminants come from outside factors not actually associated with the use of stainless steel, such as certain conditions in the atmosphere and also iron and rust from other nearby items. Remember that rust is often caused by a transfer of corrosion from “rusting” instruments. Please avoid contact of “rusting” instruments with other instruments.

1.    Always store you cleaned equipment away from water and out of humidity.

2.    Storing your equipment in separate holders will also help them to dry quicker.

3.    Never mix your instruments with ones that have rust on them as it can transfer

4.    When you have finished using your equipment clean with a soft brush and a mix of Chlorhexidine and water, then place to dry. If you are using your equipment out in the field, let them dry in the sun.

5.    Steel cleaner and soft steelo wool can be used to take off surface rust.