Hygiene Atlas

Start here · Machines · Sterilization area

Handpiece cleaning and lubrication station

Also called: handpiece lube station, handpiece maintenance unit, oiling station

Where handpieces are cleaned and oiled before they are sterilized.

Dental handpieces (the drills) have tiny internal parts that pick up saliva and blood. CDC says to clean and heat-sterilize every handpiece between patients; wiping or soaking in chemicals is not enough. Cleaning and lubrication (oiling) are the biggest factors in how well handpieces work and how long they last. Some offices oil by hand with a spray can; others use an automatic station.

How to spot it

  • A spray can of handpiece cleaner or lubricant with an adapter nozzle, or a small machine with handpiece couplers inside a lid.

What it is used for

  • After each patient: flush the handpiece, clean it, lubricate it, run out extra oil, then package and sterilize it.
  • Every brand has its own steps; follow the handpiece manufacturer's instructions exactly.

Safety and care

  • Wear PPE; oil and debris can spray out.
  • A handpiece that cannot be heat-sterilized and has no FDA-cleared reprocessing instructions should not be used.

Related

Sources: CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17), CDC. Statement on Reprocessing Dental Handpieces (archived)