title: The performance of autoclaved high-speed dental handpieces.
abstract: High-speed dental handpieces, which are used so extensively in modern dental practice, may be a source of cross-contamination between patients. A standard autoclave procedure of 121 C for 15 minutes will sterilize the handpieces evaluated in this report. The performance in a standardized laboratory trial showed deterioration of speed in the simulated three-month period. Clinical evaluations for three months showed some minor mechanical problems. These dental handpieces should be used in conjunction with a formal daily and three-month maintenance program.
mesh_terms: D003754:Dental High-Speed Equipment / Q000592:standards*; D011312:Pressure; D013227:Steam; D013242:Sterilization / Q000379:methods*
chemical_list: D013227:Steam