Managing the multitude of instruments required on a daily basis can be stressful and time consuming. When it comes to the smaller pieces of equipment, such as burs, this can not only cause frustration, but searching for the correct instrument or right-sized bur can absorb precious tray preparation time for the dental nurse, subsequently delaying procedures for the clinician.
Planning the correct number and type of instrument required for an average day is the first step to organising equipment and ensuring smooth workflow in surgery. Remember when assigning burs that they are classically most easily misplaced items due to their small size.
Keeping hold of burs
If you put in place a strict bur management system to facilitate quick and easy retrieval of burs, this will not only allow you to access them at any time, but will increase practice efficiency, reduce stress and save you time and money. Add a reliable bur holder system to this and you’re on your way to successfully managing your burs.
Solutions
Colour coding: simple colour coding or labelling of bur holders is an option, yet many bur holders do not lend themselves well to labelling. Moreover, because the bur holder should be regularly sterilised, using sticky labels is inadvisable.
Colour-coded bur holders: assigned for specific clinicians or surgeries, using these can be a useful approach. Different-sized holders would also serve as a simple way to manage burs according to your chosen categorisation system.
Categorising by procedure: another solution to managing burs is categorising burs into procedures, e.g. composites, veneer prep, etc. You can use a Sharpie pen or CD marker to assist in finding the correct kit.
An all-in-one solution
The full solution to prevent burs going missing on their way to or from decon requires a mix of attention to procedure and reliable bur holders. Some bur holders simply don’t grip the shanks and the burs fall out during decontamination. Traditionally, sterilisable bur holders have been made of metal with metal lids or covers that make seeing the burs impossible. High temperature-resistant silicone holders with clear lids are available. The silicone base resists deterioration while the clear lids allow you to see the instruments and remove the lids to retrieve any missing, worn or broken burs, replacing them in the same order.
These holders also feature a tapered orifice to bind every diameter of bur throughout the decontamination process, ensuring these essentials won’t dislodge. Another big advantage is that these high temperature-resistant holders can go straight into the washer-disinfector or autoclave fully loaded. This further reduces the risk of losing burs and saves time.
Finding an effective bur management system that suits your needs will save and reduce stress, thus increasing productivity and saving money spent buying replacement burs.
To find out how you can start to eliminate the costs and frustration of lost burs in your practice, click here and we’ll be in touch with our recommended solutions.
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