INSTRUMENT CARE AND MAINTENANCE Most orthodontic and dental instrument manufacturers recommend routine cleaning, sterilization and lubrication to help ensure optimum instrument performance. However, their warranties do not cover routine maintenance or reconditioning. In fact, most will recommend sharpening every 3 to 6 months, especially in heavy volume practices. The importance and benefits of sharp instruments cannot be over-emphasized; they provide an increase in chair-side efficiency, while decreasing operator frustration. Dull instruments can cause patient trauma and discomfort, loose brackets, as well as unnecessary, costly emergency visits. Routine sharpening allows for a minimal amount of metal to be removed from instrument tips, therefore saving money by not having to replace or re-tip costly instruments as often. It is in you and your patients' best interest in keeping your valuable instrument investment in peak operating condition.