BDIA warns of handpiece repair risks in new campaign

The British Dental Industry Association (BDIA) has partnered with four handpiece manufacturers to raise awareness of the risks associated with the use of generic spare parts in handpiece repairs.

The campaign aims to help dental professionals make informed decisions about handpiece maintenance and understand the risks of counterfeit and non-compliant devices.

Bien-Air, KaVo, NSK and W&H are supporting the initiative, which encourages dental professionals to check what parts are being used to repair their handpieces. Together, they aim to highlight the importance of using original manufacturer spare parts and provide clear guidance on purchasing and maintaining these devices.

The BDIA acknowledges that generic spare parts are being used in handpiece repairs, which could ‘fundamentally alter’ the device’s original construction, and transfer responsibility away from the original manufacturer.

With patient safety and clinical performance at the heart of the campaign, the association also highlights that generic parts could put patients and dental professionals at risk by compromising the safety, reliability and performance of the handpiece.

The campaign states: ‘Counterfeit and non-compliant dental devices are entering the UK supply chain.’ Asking ‘What’s really in your hands?’, it warns that these devices could put patients, clinicians’ reputations and professional registration at risk.

‘An essential part of dentistry’

Edmund Proffitt, BDIA chief executive, commented: ‘Handpieces are an essential part of dentistry. Dental professionals need confidence in their handpiece and the quality of its maintenance and repair.

‘By working with leading manufacturers, we aim to help practices ask the right questions about spare parts and make informed decisions that put patient and user safety first.’

The initiative will be shared with organisations including the British Dental Association, General Dental Council, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and Care Quality Commission.

Read the full press release here.

Learn more by visiting the BDIA website.

Interested in reading more on handpieces?

• The hidden cost of cheap handpieces
• Quiz: should you repair or replace your handpiece?
• Handpiece compliance: are you missing a step?
• Five signs your handpiece is holding you back.

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