<h2 style="text-align:justify">How to Clean and Sterilize a KaVo PROPHYflex 4 Without Causing Clogs</h2>

&nbsp;

KaVo states the PROPHYflex 4 can be disassembled, cleaned, disinfected and sterilised. Good reprocessing does two jobs: it makes the device safe for the next patient, and it stops powder residue from turning into blockages. Always follow the instructions for use supplied with your device. The points below come from KaVo&#39;s official product information and FAQs.

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Cleaning, Disinfection and Sterilization Are Separate Steps</h2>

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<ul>
	<li>
	Clearing powder removes residue that would otherwise clog the device.
	</li>
	<li>
	Cleaning removes visible soil from all parts.
	</li>
	<li>
	Disinfection reduces microbes, using methods your IFU permits.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sterilization prepares the device for the next patient.
	</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<h2 style="text-align:justify">Right After Treatment: Clear the Powder</h2>

&nbsp;

KaVo explains that the lowest power setting is almost powderless and pushes leftover powder out of the handpiece. Use it after treatment to rinse the remaining powder through, which helps prevent clogging.

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Reprocessing Points KaVo Highlights</h2>

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Use the reprocessing seal</h2>

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KaVo states the reprocessing seal must be fitted for mechanical reprocessing, because it redirects cleaning media into the powder tube.

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Cannula and holding part</h2>

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KaVo has validated reprocessing the cannula and holding part together. If the cannula thread may be contaminated, for example after it was screwed or unscrewed during treatment, reprocess the parts separately.

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Perio tips</h2>

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Powder Rules That Protect the Device</h2>

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KaVo powder rules for the PROPHYflex 4

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<table align="center" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:900px">
	<thead>
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			<td style="background-color:#111111; border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:1px solid #8c8c8c; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			Rule
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			<td style="background-color:#111111; border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:none; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:1px solid #8c8c8c; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			KaVo guidance
			</td>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
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			Which powders
			</td>
			<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:none; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:none; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			Only KaVo powders. Non-KaVo powders cannot be used.
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#f2f2f2; border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:none; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			Reusing powder
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#f2f2f2; border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:none; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:none; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			Not allowed. The cap is for preparing powder, not storing used powder.
			</td>
		</tr>
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			<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:none; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			Shelf life
			</td>
			<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:none; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:none; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			PROPHYflex Powder 5 years; PROPHYpearls neutral 5 years; flavoured 3 years; Perio Powder 2 years
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#f2f2f2; border-bottom:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-left:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-right:1px solid #8c8c8c; border-top:none; vertical-align:top; width:390px">
			Preparing ahead
			</td>
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			Sealable containers can be pre-filled for the next treatment
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

<h2 style="text-align:justify">Air Quality and Storage</h2>

&nbsp;

KaVo&#39;s maintenance guidance for PROPHYflex devices states that compressed air must be completely free of moisture. Store powders sealed and dry, away from the sterilizer.

&nbsp;

<h2 style="text-align:justify">Mistakes That Lead to Clogs</h2>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	Skipping the low-setting rinse after treatment.
	</li>
	<li>
	Leaving out the reprocessing seal in mechanical reprocessing.
	</li>
	<li>
	Refilling a container that is still damp.
	</li>
	<li>
	Reusing leftover powder.
	</li>
	<li>
	Ignoring water in the compressor drain.
	</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2 style="text-align:justify">Choosing the Grip Sleeve</h2>

&nbsp;

KaVo supplies two grip sleeves with each PROPHYflex 4: short, about 3.7 cm, and long, about 4.4 cm. Choose the length that suits each clinician. KaVo notes that adjustable length adds sensitivity in subgingival work.

&nbsp;

<h2 style="text-align:justify">Preparing Powder Containers in Advance</h2>

&nbsp;

KaVo designed sealable containers so different powders can be prepared before treatment. Fill them in a dry area and seal them straight away. KaVo is clear that the cap is for preparation only. Leftover powder must not be reused.

&nbsp;

<h2 style="text-align:justify">Perio Tip Life and Refills</h2>

&nbsp;

KaVo states each perio tip can be reprocessed up to 10 times. Track cycles, and replace tips using the Refill PROPHYflex perio tip pack (1.010.0287), which fits the PROPHYflex 4 Perio Kit.

&nbsp;

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<h2 style="text-align:justify">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>

&nbsp;

Can the PROPHYflex 4 be sterilized?

Yes. KaVo states it can be disassembled, cleaned, disinfected and sterilised.

Why do I need the reprocessing seal?

KaVo states it redirects the cleaning media into the powder tube during mechanical reprocessing.

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How to clean and sterilize a KaVo PROPHYflex 4: the reprocessing seal, separate cannula reprocessing, powder rules and storage

How to Clean and Sterilize a PROPHYflex 4 | Repair.Dental