A good dental material can give poor results if it has been stored badly. Composites that have hardened in the syringe, adhesives that have lost effectiveness or impression materials that no longer set properly often share the same cause: storage. The good news is that the rules are simple, and the most important one is printed on the packaging.
The manufacturer’s instructions come first
Every material has its own storage conditions, written on the box or in the leaflet: temperature range, protection from light or moisture, how long it can be used after opening. These take priority over any general rule, including the ones in this article. When in doubt, ask your supplier or read the leaflet again.
Temperature
Most materials are stored at room temperature, away from heat sources: radiators, sunny windows, the autoclave or equipment that warms up. Some products must be kept cool; in that case, the manufacturer usually also says how long to leave them at room temperature before use. Avoid sudden temperature changes and never leave materials in the car, summer or winter.
Light
Light-cured materials start to set under light, including the light in the surgery. Close syringes and containers straight after use and do not leave material open on the tray under the operating light longer than necessary. Keep them in their boxes or in closed drawers.
Moisture and air
Some materials are sensitive to moisture or air. Put caps back immediately and keep powders and liquids tightly closed, in dry places. Do not store materials above the sink or next to the steriliser, where steam and splashes are common.
Shelf life
Check the expiry date on delivery and again before use. Put new products behind the old ones so the nearest dates are used first. Some materials also have an in-use period after opening, shorter than the date on the box: write the opening date on the packaging.
Order in the cupboard
- group materials by type of work so you find what you need quickly;
- keep refrigerated materials separate and check the fridge temperature regularly;
- keep products in their original packaging, with the label and lot number visible;
- take expired products or damaged packs out of use.
Why it matters
A correctly stored material behaves as designed: working and setting times are as expected and its properties are those promised. That means more predictable work and less waste.
If you are not sure how a product should be stored, ask us: our staff have more than 25 years of experience in the field and will help you find the right information.
