Frequently asked

We use a friction grip stone and a high-speed handpiece, and also hand sharpen when needed — the same technique that delivers precise, consistent results in clinical practice.

Sharp instruments drive employee satisfaction and retention, thorough calculus removal, better time management, fewer repetitive-strain injuries, and happier patients. Dull instruments burnish calculus into the tooth, force excess pressure, and lead to discomfort and bad reviews.

Views vary, but leading sources recommend enough for one setup per patient per day (RDH Magazine) or enough for a half day's work (Hu-Friedy). A key factor is sterilization time — without a dedicated sterilization assistant, instruments often sit unusable during the day, so adequate cassettes in rotation are essential.

Most sources cite 9–18 months (Today's RDH), or 6–12 months to 15–18 months depending on metal composition (RDH Magazine). 18 months is generally considered the maximum instrument life. Proper sharpening and handling keep instruments at peak performance throughout their lifespan.

Inconsistent sharpening (more metal must be removed from severely dull instruments, and multiple hygienists sharpening at different angles fight each other's technique), heavy use from too few cassettes, and improper cleaning before sterilization that leaves debris and causes corrosion.

Set up a consistent sharpening rotation and send instruments out before they get severely dull, use cassettes to protect instruments during sterilization and storage, and keep a log of your cassettes, their contents, and when they were last sharpened.