During dental procedures, managing expected or unexpected bleeding is one of the most crucial requirements. 

A dental hemostat is a tool that provides control over hemorrhaging by clamping blood vessels or tissues. This tool allows dentists to carry on with dental procedures successfully without leading to complications due to bleeding. 

Despite being helpful, the wrong usage of hemostats may lead to complications. 

5 common mistakes using hemostats and their solutions

Selecting the wrong hemostat

Given the role that they play in major dental procedures, dental hemostats must be selected carefully. 

Typically, dental hemostats are available in various shapes (curved, straight, etc.) and sizes. Different dental procedures often require different shapes and sizes of these tools. Using the wrong size or shape of the tool for a dental procedure might not only be ineffective, this may also cause a lot of discomfort for the patient. 

The solution is to assess the targeted area and use a hemostat that is appropriate for the area. 

Incorrectly securing the tool

For dental hemostats to work optimally, they need to be properly secured, like in the case of locking hemostats. Not securing them or locking them properly may result in the tool slipping off mid-procedure, which might lead to injuries and complications. In any other type of hemostat, not gripping the device well while in use might also result in slipping and cause injury to the patient. 

The solution to this mistake is to ensure that the tool is secured properly before using it in any dental procedure. 

Applying excessive force

Dental hemostats are devices that should work on the application of minimal pressure when the right size and shape are selected. 

Applying excessive force or pressure while using a hemostat can cause damage to the delicate gum area and tissues. Moreover, incorrect clamping pressure might result in less effective results in controlling the bleeding itself. 

The solution is to apply just as much pressure as is needed for the hemostat to effectively work on controlling bleeding. 

Improper sterilization of the tool

As the oral cavity is one of the sensitive parts of the body, dentists should always ensure they use clean tools in dental procedures. 

All dental tools, including dental hemostats, need to be properly sterilized before and after each dental procedure to ensure hygiene. Not maintaining a hemostat because of improper sterilization is not only unhygienic and unsafe for the patient, this may reduce the efficacy of the tool itself.

The solution is to ensure proper sterilization of the hemostat before and after every use. The tool must be replaced regularly, after a few uses, as wear and tear is normal. 

Overreliance on the tool

Hemostatic agents in the form of powders, gauze, or more must be used with hemostats when necessary. If this is not followed, the hemostat may not work effectively. 

The solution is to promptly use hemostatic agents when required in dental procedures. 

Optimu Rotary offers high-quality, genuine Horico® dental rotary instruments at exclusive prices. The trusted store offers a wide range of rotary instruments online, so you can buy them from the comfort of your home and enjoy free shipping on online orders. Choose from a wide selection of dental supplies and surgical instruments for use in various dental procedures. 

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