Nearly every one of your patient interactions occurs in the dental chair. It’s the center stage for examinations, cleanings, and a variety of procedures, playing a critical role in both patient comfort and successful outcomes.  Considering the investment – a high-quality dental chair can easily cost thousands of dollars – these important pieces of equipment deserve top-notch care.

However, even the most dependable dental chair can encounter issues that disrupt your daily workflow. From unexpected breakdowns to gradual performance decline, common dental chair problems can quickly lead to delays, cancellations, and frustrated patients. 

But don’t worry! Tekagogo is here to help. We understand the critical role your dental chair plays and offer a reliable, on-demand dental chair repair service to get you back on track quickly and efficiently.

To help you avoid these issues and keep your practice running smoothly, we’ve put together this helpful guide to dental chair repair – focusing on the four most common troubleshooting issues. 

Let’s get into it! 

Electrical Malfunctions

Your dental chair relies on a complex network of electrical components to function properly.  Unfortunately, electrical malfunctions are one of the most common issues that can bring your operations to a halt.

Here’s a breakdown of some common electrical problems:

  • Faulty Wiring: Frayed or damaged wires can disrupt the electrical flow, leading to flickering lights, malfunctioning controls, or even complete power loss in your chair.
  • Non-Responsive Controls: If your foot pedal or control panel isn’t responding, there could be an electrical issue with the switches or wiring connections.
  • Power Fluctuations: Unexpected power surges or dips can damage sensitive electronic components within the chair, causing a variety of malfunctions.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Before attempting any repairs yourself, always ensure your safety by unplugging the chair from the power source. Here are some basic troubleshooting steps you can try:

  • Inspect the Power Cord: Look for any visible signs of damage to the power cord, such as fraying or kinks.
  • Check Connections: Ensure all electrical connections at the wall outlet, control panel, and foot pedal are secure.
  • Review the Manual: Consult your dental chair’s user manual for specific troubleshooting recommendations for your model.

When to Ping Tekagogo:

If the troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, or if you’re uncomfortable dealing with electrical components, it’s time to bring in the professionals. Tekagogo boasts a network of highly skilled Teks who can quickly diagnose and repair complex electrical problems.

Remember: Don’t attempt electrical repairs beyond your comfort level. Our on-demand service ensures a qualified technician can be dispatched immediately to get your dental chair back up and running safely and efficiently.

Hydraulic System Failures

The smooth and controlled movement of your dental chair is powered by a hydraulic system. This system uses pressurized fluid to raise, lower, and tilt the chair, ensuring optimal positioning for various procedures. 

Signs of a Hydraulic System Failure:

Several symptoms can indicate trouble with your chair’s hydraulic system:

  • Leaking Fluid: Hydraulic fluid leaks are a telltale sign of a malfunction. Look for puddles beneath the chair base or dampness around the hydraulic components.
  • Erratic Movement: Difficulty raising, lowering, or tilting the chair, or jerky movements during adjustments, can point to issues with the hydraulic system.
  • Inability to Maintain Position: If the chair struggles to hold its position and drifts downwards during procedures, it could be due to a hydraulic leak or faulty components.

Basic Maintenance Tips:

While some hydraulic repairs require professional intervention, there are a few basic maintenance tasks you can perform:

  • Check Fluid Levels: Your dental chair’s user manual will specify the recommended type and level of hydraulic fluid. Regularly checking the fluid level and topping it off as needed can help prevent malfunctions.
  • Visual Inspection: Look for any visible signs of wear or damage on hoses, connectors, or the hydraulic pump.

When to Ping Tekagogo:

If you notice a leak, suspect a major component failure, or are uncomfortable performing maintenance tasks, Tekagogo is here to help—just ping us from your dashboard, and we’ll be there within the day, or you can schedule the repair at a time that is convenient for you and your patients. Our skilled Teks can replace worn-out seals, repair damaged components, and ensure your chair’s movement is smooth, controlled, and reliable once again.

dentist patient smiling

Mechanical Wear and Tear

Even with proper care, your dental chair’s mechanical components are subject to wear and tear over time. Just like the engine in your car, the constant movement and adjustments can lead to issues with gears, bearings, and other mechanical parts.

Common Signs of Mechanical Wear:

Here are some indicators that your dental chair might be experiencing mechanical wear and tear:

  • Unusual Noises: Grinding, squeaking, or other unfamiliar noises during operation can signal worn gears or bearings.
  • Stiff Movement: If the chair becomes difficult to move or feels jerky during adjustments, it could be due to friction caused by wear and tear.
  • Loose Components: Worn parts may cause components within the chair to become loose, leading to instability or malfunction.

Maintaining Your Investment:

Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your dental chair’s mechanical components. 

Here are a few tips:

  • Lubrication: Following the manufacturer’s recommendations, lubricate specific points on your chair to minimize friction and wear.
  • Scheduled Maintenance: Many manufacturers recommend professional maintenance checks at regular intervals to identify potential issues before they escalate into major breakdowns. Tekagogo offers a preventative maintenance program – ask us about it! 
  • Proper Use: Avoiding overloading the chair and using proper handling techniques can significantly reduce wear and tear.

When to Ping Tekagogo:

Don’t wait for a major breakdown to disrupt your practice. If you notice any signs of mechanical wear and tear, contact Tekagogo for a prompt and professional solution.

Our skilled Teks have the expertise and experience to handle even the most complex mechanical issues. They can diagnose problems, replace worn parts, and ensure your dental chair operates smoothly and reliably for years to come!

Upholstery Damage

Your dental chair’s upholstery is more than just a cosmetic element. It plays a crucial role in patient comfort during procedures and also contributes to the overall aesthetics of your clinic.  Unfortunately, upholstery is susceptible to damage over time, impacting both patient experience and your professional image.

Common Signs of Upholstery Damage:

Your dental chair’s upholstery might need attention if you notice:

  • Tears and Rips: Accidental nicks from instruments, or general wear and tear, can lead to tears and rips in the upholstery. These can be not only unsightly but also pose a potential hygiene concern.
  • Cracks and Peeling: Over time, the upholstery material can crack or peel, especially in areas with high contact or friction. This can compromise the chair’s comfort and detract from its professional appearance.
  • Visible Wear: Faded or worn upholstery can make your dental chair look old and tired, even if it’s still functionally sound.

Inspection and Repair Options:

Upholstery damage can create a negative impression on patients, potentially impacting their perception of your practice’s hygiene standards and overall quality of care. It’s important to regularly inspect your dental chair’s upholstery for any signs of damage. For minor tears or cracks, professional repair might be an option. However, for extensive wear or damage, upholstery replacement is often the best course of action.

When to Ping Tekagogo

Tekagogo can connect you with qualified Teks who can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action, be it repair or replacement. Tekagogo ensures access to high-quality, durable upholstery materials that will not only restore your chair’s comfort but also maintain a professional look for your clinic.

Keep Your Practice Running Smoothly: Trust Tekagogo for Dental Chair Repair

Tekagogo stands ready to address any dental chair repair problems you encounter, no matter how big or small. Don’t wait for a major breakdown to cause delays and frustration! Our prompt and professional service ensures your chair is always operating at its best.

Get Started with Tekagogo