The below will go into detail about scanner tip care, including sterilization, disinfection, and cleaning. It also provides information on the overall scanner tip lifecycle and improper tip care. The scanner tip is the removable part of the scanner that is inserted into the patient's mouth during scanning.
Sterilizing Scanner Tips
- Remove the scanner tip from the scanner wand.
- Clean the scanner tip manually with warm, soapy water and a soft brush to remove debris. Autoclaving will not remove smudges or marks on the mirror.
- Rinse with water and dry carefully with a paper towel or soft tissue.
- Place the tip in a sealed autoclave bag on its own.
- Place the scanner tip on the top rack of the autoclave, ensuring it is kept away from any metal objects.
Autoclave & Statim Settings for Scanner Tips
Autoclave:
- Option #1: 134 °C (273 °F) for 3 minutes with a 10-minute dry cycle
- Option #2: 121 °C (250 °F) for 15 minutes with a 10-minute dry cycle
Statim 2000 G4:
- Option #1: 135 °C (275 °F) for 10 minutes
- Option #2: 132 °C (270 °F) for 6 minutes
Dandy does not recommend Dry Heat Ultraviolet Sterilizers for scanner tip sterilization.
The autoclaving process will not remove any smudges or marks on the internal mirror of a scanner tip. Cleaning the mirror prevents issues with scanning and calibration.
Either option below can be followed.
Cleaning the Mirror with Diluted Antibacterial Dish Soap
- Apply diluted antibacterial dish soap and a nylon bristle toothbrush.
- Autoclave per the above instructions.
- Use only microfiber cloths to prevent scratching the mirror surface.
Refrain from using cotton applicators with alcohol, as the alcohol may dissolve the adhesive holding the cotton tip, leading to additional debris on the mirror.
Cleaning the Mirror with Wavicide-01
- Clean the tip manually using soap, water, and a brush immediately after use. Dry the mirror carefully with a paper towel.
- Immerse the tip completely in Wavicide-01 for 45 to 60 minutes.
- Remove the tip from the Wavicide-01 solution and rinse it with water.
- Use only microfiber cloths to prevent scratching the mirror surface.
Refrain from using cotton applicators with alcohol, as the alcohol may dissolve the adhesive holding the cotton tip, leading to additional debris on the mirror.