Received the following question regarding W&H handpieces:
Hello I am looking for information on maintenance, lubrication and sterilization of W & H Contra Angles, Midwest contra angles, High Speed, and Slow Speed handpieces. Thank you!
Answer:
My first recommendation would be to get a purge unit, if you can talk the Dr. into it. These things can save you a ton of trouble and handpiece repairs. They are expensive up front, but will pay for themselves in the long run. I believe W&H makes the Assistina which is compatible with their brand, as well as others. You can get adaptors to fit the Midwest handpieces also.
W&H Contra Angles Lubrication
For manual lubrication, give a couple of drops into the air intake hole of the Midwest low speed motors and the RDH. For W&H contra angles, as well as Midwest attachments, remove them from the motor and put a couple of drops into the back end. Then, put the contra angle back on and run handpiece for about 30 seconds. Air exiting the low speed motor helps force lube up through the contra angle. Lubricate the W&H contra angles and handpieces in the same way. Lubricate via the air intake hole on motors and highspeeds, backend in contra angles. If you have swivel handpieces, W&H has an adaptor and lubricant available to fit the backend. If you don’t have that, just remove the swivel coupler from your unit, put a couple of drops of lube in the air intake hole (it’s the smaller of the two larger holes). Put coupler back on unit, attach handpiece, and run for about 30 seconds to ensure excess lube and debris are expelled, then autoclave as usual.
W&H Contra Angles Sterilization
As far as sterilization goes, we think the CLEAR method at HandpieceStore.com is relatively comprehensive.
I hope this helps. However, my best advice was at the beginning. Automatic handpiece purge units pay for themselves over time. We have seen this time and again by the reduction in our repair rates for offices who purchase one. There are several brands to choose from. Kavo Quattrocare is probably best. Several other good ones to choose from. Check the link to them from HandpieceStore.com. Also check DentalHandpieces.com for more W&H contra angles and Midwest handpiece maintenance information.