How X-Ray Sensor Maintenance Makes Your Dental Equipment Last Longer

If you want to ensure long-term performance and avoid costly replacements, don’t forget to schedule regular maintenance for your dental x-ray sensors. 

Dental sensors are sensitive, high-tech tools that are regularly exposed to frequent handling, patient contact, and sterilization protocols. Factory seals will break down over time, and aggressive cleaning agents will accelerate that timeline.  When they’re treated roughly or stored improperly, it can lead to premature failure.  Image distortion, artifacts, connectivity problems, component failure, and other issues can arise. 

Taking a proactive approach to dental x-ray sensor maintenance not only helps prevent downtime but also extends the lifespan of your equipment. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your sensors so you can protect your investment.

Best Practices to Extend Dental Sensor Lifespan

Whether you’re using intraoral sensors from Dexis, Kavo, Schick, Gendex, Carestream, or another manufacturer, proper care and maintenance are critical. A longer lifespan improves your ROI and ensures reliable diagnostic performance for years to come. Here are some tips that will help you make your sensors last longer.

1. Use Barrier Sleeves or Sheaths

Single-use barrier sleeves or sheaths are essential to prevent contamination and protect the sensor from moisture and debris. Make sure the sensor is fully sealed before each use. They are designed for single use only, and should never be reused. 

2. Avoid Pinching/Crimping Cables

We often repair sensor cables that have been damaged from being forced into pinched or crimped positions to accommodate holders. Choose holders that fit your sensor model properly, and always guide sensor placement gently. For anxious or pediatric patients, gentle communication, proper positioning, and choosing the appropriate size can help them feel more comfortable. 

3. Handle by the Edges, Not the Cable

Another of the most common types of damage we see is from chewed/yanked cables. To prevent damage, always hold your dental sensor by the body and avoid pulling or twisting the cord. Never yank the cable out of a sheath or barrier sleeve. 

4. Store It Safely Between Uses

Don’t leave your dental x-ray sensor sitting on countertops where it could get knocked over and stepped on. Store it in a clean, padded container or wall-mounted holder away from liquids, sharp objects, and heat sources. 

5. Disinfect Carefully

Use only manufacturer-recommended disinfectants to avoid damaging the sensor casing. Wipe gently—never soak—and avoid getting fluid near the cable connection or USB end. 

How Often to Clean a Dental X-Ray Sensor

Consistent cleaning protects both your patients and your investment. Plus, it’s essential for compliance with infection control standards.

Dental x-ray sensors should be cleaned after every patient use—even if a protective barrier was used. While barrier sleeves reduce direct contact with contaminants, they’re not 100% effective. Microscopic tears or improper placement can allow saliva, blood, or other contaminants to reach the sensor surface. 

Make sure to wipe down the sensor with an approved disinfectant between patients. You should also perform a more thorough inspection of the sensor housing and cord at the end of the day, and check to see that the equipment is safely stored. 

What to Avoid:

• DO NOT use alcohol or harsh cleaners on your sensor.
• NEVER bend or crimp the cable around tight corners.
• DO NOT leave the device plugged in 24/7 (some sensors are prone to overheating, as well as long cables become a tripping hazard).
• NEVER make improvised repairs—tape, glue, and other DIY fixes will usually make things worse.

How to Know When It’s Time for Professional Dental Sensor Repair

Despite your best efforts, dental x-ray sensors can still fail over time—especially after years of daily use. If you notice image quality issues, cable fraying, seals failing, or intermittent connectivity, don’t wait for complete failure to take action. Send your sensor in for evaluation by a professional repair service. 

Protect Your Investment in Quality Equipment

Dental x-ray sensors are designed to deliver clear, reliable imaging—but only when they’re handled with care. With proactive maintenance, you can prevent damage, extend the lifespan of your diagnostic equipment, and avoid unexpected repair costs. 

At Dental Sensor Repair Experts, we specialize in quick, affordable repairs, and we offer free diagnostics. If you’re having trouble with a dental x-ray sensor, or want a professional opinion, contact us today for a free consultation.