Sterilization in dentistry is the strategic and complete destruction of microorganisms. These include spores and the most resistant bacteria. The condition is hard to achieve and proving it can also be challenging.
Many chemicals exist, explicitly made for sterilization. They come in both organic and inorganic forms, but they may not always be effective in destroying disease-causing pathogens.
Sterilization In Dentistry
Also known as disinfection, all staff in a dental clinic need to understand the concept and its importance. They also must maintain a protocol of action to protect themselves when sterilizing dental tools and the environment.
They should use appropriate barriers like gowns, gloves, masks, and protective glasses. Dental practitioners should also use disinfectant solutions specially made for cleaning surfaces, equipment, and furniture that contact patients.
Why Is Sterilization Important?
Disinfection is the most crucial process in a dental office. It’s vital to pay attention to the process since bad practices can spread germs and infections. Some critical elements involved in the sterilization procedure include:
- Initial bath in a disinfectant ultrasound to remove all soil
- Autoclave where sterilization happens at 134° and a pressure of 2.10 atmospheres for 45 minutes. The dental tools also undergo a vacuum cleaning where water vapor penetrates the most difficult places to reach.
- Biological sterilization control is where incubation of the bacterial spores happens. It verifies that the process is effective in killing the most resistant bacteria.
- Chemical control of sterilization to ensure the pressure and temperature conditions are well programmed and effective for disinfection.
- Bagging the material to store and maintain the sterilization conditions for about three months. The date of sterilization must appear on each bag to help with controlling this time.
The sterilization procedure in dentistry happens in a sterilization cabinet to prevent contamination of the biological material. If you are looking for dental services in a practice that cares about dental equipment disinfection, look no further than Westmoreland Dental Group.