A sterilizer for a dental handpiece is provided. The sterilizer provides equalized distribution of steam to a plurality of handpieces, assured minimum lubrication delivery and pressurized exhaust handpiece maintenance adapters. There is also provided a swivel adapter for a fixed-back handpiece and a detergent tablet for the cleaning chamber. There is also provided oil and evaporable solvent solution for lubrication purposes; reservoir inlet specific pour spout; SCBI and steam strip holder; a water reservoir flush routine; and, a forced chamber drain cycle.