5 Tips to Increase the Lifespan of Dental Sensors

Dental sensors have become an essential part of dental practices. Digital x-ray sensors have almost completely replaced conventional X-ray films in modern dentistry. A few benefits of having a digital x-ray sensor over conventional films are-

 

1. Immediate image formation and less to no processing time.
2. X-ray exposure dose to the patient is reduced by 80%
3. The ability to enhance the digital image in no time.
4. Dental X-ray sensors are expensive to buy but cheaper in the long term.
5. Size and quality of the X-ray images are better.

 

 

 

There are many brands that manufacture quality digital X-ray sensors such as -

 

KaVo IXS, Dexis Platinum, Dexis Titanium, Gendex, Carestream RVG 6100 / 6200, Kodak RVG 5100 / 5200, Acteon Sopro SOPIX, Apex, XDR, MyRay, Sirona XIOS XG, Gendex Visualix eHD, Owandy, OPTEO, Vatech Sensor, Dental Tuxedo, Midmark Progeny ClearVision, Planmeca ProSensor, Schick Elite, Schick 33, Schick CDR 2000, Suni, Dentimax sensor, EVA Select sensor, Sota sensor, Clio sensor, Tuxedo sensor, QuickRay, Jazz, UniRay, Sigma Bio, SnapShot Instrumentarium Dental, Fona, Handy HDR, DuraRay, Belmont Sensor, Hamamatsu.

 

But with every advantage, there comes a disadvantage. Digital X-ray sensors, unlike conventional films, require much more care to extend the life of your dental sensor. Here are a few tips that can help you keep your sensor up & running with fewer problems-

 

1. Proper Storage:

 

The most common mistake practitioners do is not storing sensors properly in between operations. there are several ways to store sensors to extend their lifespan

 

1. Do not place it in wire baskets
2. Make sure to close the lid and store it in a safe place.
3. Remove the sensor in between uses.
4. Do not store it with another object.
5. Never leave the sensor uncovered
6. Place it on sensor hooks in between operations, mounted high enough on the wall that the cable doesn't touch the floor.

 

2. Cable Care:

 

The first thing to get distorted in dental sensors is the cable which makes cable care the most essential part to increase the lifespan of dental sensors. A few things to keep in mind for cable protection of dental sensors are-

 

1. Do not coil the sensor cable too tight. 
2. Using a USB extension cable to your sensor cable.
3. Do not coil the cable around the dental chair handle in between operations.
4. loosely coil the cable while storing.

 

3. Cleaning dental sensors and accessories:

 

It is very important to clean your dental sensor. Every sensor manufacturer provides a manual that includes steps to clean and disinfect your sensor. You must follow the instructions in the manual to increase the life expectancy of the sensor. If it is not written in the manual it is not advised to submerge your sensor in disinfectant. The safest option would be to wipe the sensor with alcohol.

 

 

4. Using the right holder/positioner:

 

Many practitioners do not use positioners or holders and use their hands to place the sensor in the mouth because it's less time-consuming, but using a positioner prevents the patient from biting on the sensor. positioners help to get clearer and more accurate images to prevent multiple exposures. 

 

 

5. Handle with care:

 

Last but not least the more carefully you will handle the sensor the longer it will last. Dental sensors are very delicate and are prone to easily get damaged if not handled properly. Train you, staff, to handle it properly and avoid dropping it and knocking it against hard surfaces. 

 

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