Making the switch from disposable mouthpieces can save your practice thousands. Our autoclavable mouthpieces will last up to 100 uses, especially when cared for properly. This equates to just 25¢ per use or less!
The VacuLUX™ autoclavable mouthpiece was designed for simple sterilization, with an easy-to-access interior and minimal crevices. Be sure to follow the user guide for complete sterilization instructions.
VacuLUX™ autoclavable mouthpieces are made of proprietary, pure, high-temp medical silicone designed to withstand repeated sterilization via autoclave. However, ALL silicone will yellow and degrade as it ages, especially when exposed to heat, biomatter and chemicals.
We recommend replacing mouthpieces when they begin to yellow and soften, typically after 50 uses. With proper care your mouthpieces can last even longer!
Get the most from your VacuLUX™ autoclavable mouthpieces by following our tips for care, cleaning and sterilizing:
Rinse Your Mouthpiece Right Away
Thoroughly rinse your mouthpiece immediately after use. Letting debris and biomatter dry on the mouthpiece will increase the chance for staining.
One convenient way to do this is to dip the mouthpiece in a cup of water while it is still attached to your adapter, then flush water through the mouthpiece by turning on the HVE.
Brush Your Mouthpiece Well
With a soft toothbrush, gently brush the mouthpiece inside and out, making sure there is no biomatter on the mouthpiece. If biomatter is left on the mouthpiece when it is put into the autoclave, it will increase yellowing after repeated exposure.
Put the mouthpiece into the ultrasonic for a minimum of 15 minutes to remove any remaining residue and biomatter before autoclaving.
Start with a Clean Autoclave
Autoclave maintenance and cleaning is important for many reasons. If your autoclave is not clean, you may not notice until you begin to sterilize silicone, as stainless steel dental instruments are not visibly affected. Silicone will absorb any biomatter, minerals or chemicals left behind inside the autoclave, speeding the aging process.
Your autoclave manufacturer will have instructions for how to properly clean your autoclave, which should be done routinely. This includes cleaning and rinsing the interior, including rubber seals.
The cleaning agent we recommend using inside the autoclave is an astringent detergent such as Dawn, and/or a combination of Dawn and baking soda. Many other cleaning agents may contain chemicals harmful to silicone, even if the autoclave is thoroughly rinsed after.
Be sure that all instruments inside the autoclave with your mouthpieces are also free of biomatter and chemicals by pre-cleaning and rinsing following industry standards. Always bag your mouthpieces separately from other instruments.
Check your Autoclave Water
Part of maintaining your autoclave includes routinely replacing water. Make sure the water in your autoclave is pure, distilled water. Also be sure that the water tank does not have mineral build up. Minerals and other contaminants can effect the look of your mouthpiece making them appear cloudy and yellow.
Steam is important in the sterilization of autoclavable mouthpieces and we do not recommend dry sterilizing.
Temperature is Key
Temperature settings are very important when it comes to sterilizing silicone. We recommend a minimum of 121°C/250°F for safe sterilization of the mouthpiece.
Because heat is a factor in the longevity of your mouthpiece, do not exceed a temperature of 134°C/273°F.
If your autoclave has pre-set temperature settings, read the manufacturer's guide to find the setting best suitable for silicone by remaining within the 121°C/250°F to 134°C/273°F range recommended.
Avoid Certain Chemicals
Chemicals are not needed to clean and sterilize your mouthpieces. If necessary, a combination of an astringent detergent such as Dawn and baking soda can be used to clean surface staining as a result of dried-on biomatter. Most other chemicals, however, are harmful to silicone.
Silicone will absorb and break down if exposed to cleaning agents such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, vinegar and oil-based cleaners. These chemicals can permeate, swell and prematurely damage and discolor the silicone, so we recommend avoiding them to extend the life of your mouthpiece.
VacuLUX™ autoclavable mouthpieces are a great alternative to filling the landfills with costly disposable mouthpieces and can be a safe way to save money for your dental practice. Increase your savings even further by following our sterilization instructions and these tips for extending the life of your mouthpieces.
For more information about the care of your autoclavable VacuLUX™ mouthpieces, visit www.AscentcareDental.com/videos or call (616) 600-4505 to speak to an Ascentcare representative.