Sterilization in Dentistry
December 16, 2023
Sterilization in Dentistry
In dental clinics we deal with human blood and saliva which are full of pathogens, bacteria and viruses. Hence, once an instrument is used in a patient’s mouth it gets infected which if not cleaned properly may infect others. This is why it’s important to disinfect and sterilize dental equipment after each use. Especially post COVID-19 we must be more stringent with sterilization and disinfection. Sterilization does not just mean mere washing and wiping the instruments. Read on to know more…
What is disinfection ?
It is a process of cleaning that gets rid of almost all pathogenic organisms but not bacterial spores. Liquid chemicals are typically used in this procedure. It can be performed on the floor, dental chairs, x-ray machine and the things we directly touch in the dental clinic.
What is Sterlization ?
It is a process that eliminates all microbial life. If it is not done,there is a chance that the bacteria and virus infect subsequent patients and staff members in the clinic. An autoclave is used to sterilize the instruments.
An autoclave is a machine where dental instruments are heated to a temperature of up to 134 degree celcius to kill all pathogens including bacterial spores.
What are the benefits ?
- It prevents the spread of infections, keeps the patients and staff members safe from pathogens.
- In our dental clinic we have a high quality B-class autoclave where instruments are cleaned, packed individually and sealed and then placed into the autoclave. As this autoclave has a vacuum pump it is capable of sterilizing goods and porous elements with weak hold.The instruments are dried inside the autoclave itself. The seal is only opened in front of the patients.
- Following stringent sterilization and disinfection protocols to keep all our staff as well as patients safe is of utmost importance to us!
Dr Swetha Chakoti / About Author
Dr. Swetha exclusively practices as Dental Surgeon and smile designing.
