Frequently Asked Questions
The Answers You Need
How long does it take to repair your instruments?
Usually, it will take one week to repair your pliers unless they require re-tipping and we do not have a service exchange for your particular make. Although uncommon, in this instance it can take up to 6 weeks but most popular brands are stocked and can be shipped with the rest of your order.
How much does it cost to have my instruments repaired?
It costs just £18.95 for our re-sharpening service and £38.00 for re-tipping. This is an all-in price just a small charge for postage and packaging to add.
Do you only service cutters?
We repair more than just cutters, also repairing weingarts, birdbeak pliers, bracket removers, band removers, infact we will endeavour to repair any orthodontic based pliers.
Do you supply a prepaid envelope?
We do not currently offer this service due to our highly competitive pricing.
What is the warranty on your sharpening?
We offer a limited warranty on our re-sharpening, of you being satisfied the cutters are cutting, and in the case of distal end cutters that they catch all required sizes of wires on their return only.
This is because we are not adding to the cutter only removing by grinding the surface of the tips and because there are many quality differences in cutters, we are only able to offer the above.
How many pairs of pliers should I send?
You can post as many pliers as you would like on each occasion. Just make sure to package them well and ensure that you have paid the correct postage charge. Most importantly we need to know your return details so we can return your instruments to the correct address.
How should I maintain my orthodontic tools/instruments?
Place orthodontic pliers/instruments on a rack or in a cassette and sterilise according to manufacturer specifications.
Avoid exposing your orthodontic pliers/ instruments to unnecessary moisture.
Allow your steriliser/autoclave to complete the entire drying cycle, moisture is the biggest enemy of your pliers. Make sure that they are dried and oiled routinely.
Why have I got Orange/Brown stains on my orthodontic instruments?
Orange/Brown stains that resemble rust on orthodontic plier/instruments is usually the result of a phosphate layer (brown to light orange) which develops as a result of one or more of the following causes: water source, detergents used to wash and clean instruments, cold sterilization solutions and high pH (above 7).
Why do I have Blue/Black stains on my orthodontic instruments?
Blue/ black stains are usually a result of plating and are extremely difficult to remove from the orthodontic instrument surface. The cause for this stain is the mixing of dissimilar metals in ultrasonic cleaners and during sterilization. Multi-color stains are most often due to excessive heat (chromium oxide stains), and actually show rainbow colours with a blue or brown overtone. The staining can be polished off the surface of your orthodontic pliers however it will return after just a few sterilization cycles.