This is a question from a reader that’s worthy of some discussion, because it does two things:
- It has us consider the concept of cutting corners (and all that could possibly entail).
- It makes us assess our pocketbooks.
Both subjects—simply by virtue of mentioning them—can get us riled up. Take a look at this note from one of our readers:
I have been doing dentistry for 32 years. I pride myself on keeping up with the times and not cutting corners. I recently read an article in a dental assistants’ educational mailing, and it discussed how some offices sterilize and reuse diamond burs, but that they are not supposed to be used twice. I asked my staff, and, sure enough, we pulled the packaging out and a “2 with a slash through it = one-time use only” is marked on them.
I have worked in five different dental offices/settings, and diamond burs were always sterilized and always reused.
I asked my assistants to find the real answer on this one, but our reps just skirted around the subject, and we did not get anywhere. The manufacturers said yes, only use once except for some special type (of burs) that can be used more than once.
The note references this article, "Myth busters for dental assistants: Does your practice reuse burs?" from DentistryIQ.
Do you reuse your diamond burs?
This one is sure to get some attention because what should happen versus what actually happens are two different animals. The concept of cutting corners and money is this: diamond burs are expensive, and they are being used more than once. Plain and simple.
Now, the argument can go on either side of the fence, and each side can make some strong points—good, bad, or indifferent, but this is raw and real dentistry. Perhaps just by reading the editorial, you may decide to modify your ways. But just as easily you may dig in your heels and take no issue with your current status quo.
I’m not here to change your mind or put you down; what I’m here for is to discuss the realities of dentistry. Do those manufacturers love the fact that they can put a “2 with a slash through it"? Let’s be brutally honest—of course they do, because money talks. HOWEVER, infection control is a big deal, so we can’t discredit it...especially in light of last year’s pandemic-related events. You see where I’m going with this? The volley of arguments is aplenty.
Some diamond burs can be reused, but then we may ask: Why those burs and not others? Are the manufacturers cherry-picking/cutting corners with their 501(k) clearance products? It’s a legitimate question.
What do I do?
I have and do reuse my burs, but I’m selective about which ones and am conscientious of cut time, materials, etc. I have zero issues about tossing a bur and getting a new one. But if I’m cutting off a zirconia crown and use up three old diamond burs to do it, then I will. Again, this is what’s happening in real life, and I know I’m not alone.
Send me an email and state what you do and why. Let’s put our thoughts out there for some interesting reading.
Keeping it real, raw, and unafraid...
Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Through the Loupes newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe to Through the Loupes.
Stacey L. Gividen, DDS, a graduate of Marquette University School of Dentistry, is in private practice in Hamilton, Montana. She is a guest lecturer at the University of Montana in the anatomy and physiology department. Dr. Gividen is the editorial codirector of Through the Loupes and a contributing author for DentistryIQ, Perio-Implant Advisory, and Dental Economics. She serves on the Dental Economics editorial advisory board. You may contact her at [email protected].
