Proper Dental Handpiece Cleaning and Sterilization
Protocols Using RiteWipe

Maintaining dental handpieces is critical for ensuring optimal performance and patient safety in any dental practice. Proper sterilization and dental handpiece cleaning protocols are essential to prevent the spread of infection and prolong the instruments’ lifespan. RiteWipe™ offers a revolutionary dental handpiece wipe designed to simplify and enhance the presterilization cleaning process.

Why Choose RiteWipe?

RiteWipe is the first wipe specifically designed to effectively clean dental handpieces prior to sterilization. Supported by over 200 years of collective experience in the dental industry, RiteWipe helps dental practices maintain hygiene standards, prevent equipment deterioration, and streamline workflow.

Key advantages of RiteWipe include:

• Blue Dot Technology™: Embedded blue dots act as microscrubbers, tackling the toughest bioburden.
• Low linting: Ensures a spotless clean every time.
• Premoistened: Ready to use right out of the package, saving time and enhancing efficiency.
• Durable Material: Strong, nonabrasive material effectively cleans without damaging dental handpieces.

Instructions for Use (IFU)

Basis for Cleaning Dental Instruments

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention (OSAP)/Association for Dental Safety (ADS) have established the importance of cleaning dental instruments after use and before sterilization. Proper cleaning is crucial to remove debris and contamination, both organic and inorganic, guaranteeing that sterilization processes are effective.

Before You Begin

• Intended Use: RiteWipe is for the pre-cleaning and decontamination of dental handpieces and associated instruments sensitive to chloride, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals.
• Contraindications: RiteWipe is not a surface disinfectant. It is designed to remove debris and contamination from sensitive dental instruments before sterilization.
• Target Group: Intended for use by trained dental personnel in dental practices, clinics, and laboratories.

Dental Handpiece Cleaning Instructions for Use in the Operatory

Processing at Point of Use (POU)

1. Use Appropriate PPE: Wear utility gloves as recommended by CDC guidelines.
2. Remove Rotary Instrument: Remove the rotary instrument from the handpiece and discard it into a sharps container.
3. Flush the System: Run the dental air/water system for 20-30 seconds after each patient to discharge water, air, or a combination.
4. Remove Handpiece: Detach the handpiece from the coupling or dental tubing.
5. Retrieve a Wipe: Open the RiteWipe pouch dispenser, remove a wipe, and reseal the pouch to maintain wipe integrity.
6. Clean the Handpiece: With the Blue Dot Technology™ facing the handpiece surface, wipe in a rotational direction, starting at the head and moving toward the bottom.
7. Ensure Thorough Cleaning: Rotate the handpiece within the wipe several times, paying close attention to the fiber optic lens area, water port area, and uneven surfaces.
8. Transport to Processing Area: Place the cleaned handpiece in an appropriate container and transport it to the instrument processing area.

Instructions for Use in the Instrument Processing Area/Central Decontamination Area

1. Remove Handpiece Safely: Use safe methods to remove the handpiece from the transportation container.
2. Scrub Under Running Water: Using a RiteWipe, scrub the handpiece under running water in a horizontal back-and-forth motion, rotating to clean the entire surface, including the head.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the handpiece under running water to remove any excess residue.
4. Discard the Wipe: After use, discard the RiteWipe into an appropriate waste container.
5. Dry the Handpiece: Use a lint-free towel to dry the handpiece in preparation for the manufacturer’s internal maintenance process.
6. Sterilize Before Use: Always sterilize handpieces and associated attachments, including low-speed motors, before use on any patient.

Disposal of Product

• General Waste: Most soiled RiteWipe products can be disposed of in general medical waste.
• Biohazard Waste: If the wipe is saturated with blood or saliva, dispose of it in a regulated medical waste (biohazard) receptacle.
• Local Regulations: Consult local regulatory requirements for proper disposal.

By following these instructions and using RiteWipe, dental practices can ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements, support infection control protocols, and maintain the longevity and functionality of their dental handpieces. Contact us for more information on sterilizing dental handpieces.

RiteWipe is committed to providing innovative solutions for dental handpiece maintenance, ensuring that your practice runs smoothly and efficiently while maintaining the highest hygiene and patient care standards.