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The spread of infectious diseases such as AIDS, herpes,
hepatitis and even the common cold is an important aspect
of oral health care. Sterilization plays a significant
role in the prevention of these transmissible conditions-
at North Carolina Dental Practice we go the extra distance
to put your mind at ease and to assure you that we are
doing our best to protect you.
Members of our dental team are extremely thorough and
well trained in infection control policies. The American
Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control
have issued guidelines that include the recommendation
that all dental hand-pieces and dental instruments should
be sterilized between patients. The most effective method
of sterilization is by use of an autoclave (equipment that
is used to clean dental instruments with super high
pressure steam).This ensures that the instruments are
completely sterilized internally and externally.
All instruments are autoclaved after each use. Disposable
instruments are used wherever possible during the dental
procedures.
At North Carolina Dental Practice we follow the
recommendations for sterilization as laid down by OSHA,
The American Dental Association and the Centres for
disease Control. All our methods are continuously up-dated
so our patients receive a high level of protection from
transmissible infections.
The following processes are carried out at the practice:
Barrier Techniques.
All members of the dental team wear disposable masks and
gloves; these are changed between each patient.
Disinfectant Wipe-Down
Before a patient enters the operatory, all the surfaces
are wiped down with a disinfectant. These include the
counter-tops, dental chair and light handles.
Instrument Sterilization
All our instruments are autoclaved and sealed in sterile
pouches. Indicator slips are placed to ensure that the
sterilization process is complete. Prior to placing
instruments in the autoclave all instruments are soaked in
a chemical disinfectant.. |
