Keeping Our Offices Safe and Clean
We consider the safety and health of those visiting and working in our office critically important. We work hard to prevent the spread of disease and infection by routinely and thoroughly cleaning and sterilizing equipment and instruments used in our practice.
All surfaces are cleaned before each and every exam, and all equipment, including the dental light, the dental chair, countertops, and drawer handles are disinfected and sanitized. Most of the equipment is also covered with protective plastic that is removed, discarded, and replaced after every patient.
Dental Office Sterilization Protocols
All of our dental team members are extensively trained in infection control practices and protocols. Our staff uses the appropriate protective equipment during every procedure and exam, including donning masks, gloves, eyewear, and gowns when appropriate. When the exam or procedures is finished, these items are disposed of or thoroughly cleaned before the next appointment.
A cornerstone of any good sterilization routine is handwashing. The absolute best way to prevent the spread of infection is to practice regular, effective handwashing. Our staff routinely washes their hands with soap and water and also uses antibacterial hand sanitizer frequently.
Between every exam, we clean and disinfect surfaces and work areas, and frequently clean and disinfect waiting rooms and offices. All staff and clients are also able to:
- Wear face masks and gloves, available not only for staff but also for clients.
- Wash hands with disinfectant soap, which is stocked and available at all handwashing stations.
- Clean countertops and surfaces with EPA approved chemicals and disinfectants.
Our cleaning and sterilization procedures follow the guidance of the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The safety and health of our clients and staff is our top priority, and our commitment is that we will take all necessary steps to ensure quality infection control procedures are regularly carried out.
Cleaning and Sterilizing Equipment
We use the most recent, state of the art practices and protocols to clean dental instruments and in dental office sterilization.
Most of the tools that we use in our routine dental care practice are disposable, but there are some that are not and require cleaning and sterilization between clients. Our dental team uses advanced dental sterilization machines and equipment. This includes steam sterilizers, dental sterilizers, and dental autoclaves. These machines are highly effective in killing viruses, bacteria, and other infectious germs by applying heat, pressure, and steam.
The disposable, single-use items that we use as part of our practice include things like syringe tips and impression trays. Other items that fit in this category are gowns, face shields, gloves, masks, and things used during routine cleanings like gauze, brushes, and floss. Such items are only used once, then disposed of safely and properly.
Instrument Sterilization Procedures
For items that must be reused, we have in place a strict protocol for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilization between each and every use.
First, we thoroughly clean items using ultrasonic cleaners. These cleaners are highly effective in removing germs, bacteria, and other debris. Once clean, we wrap instruments in special packages and seal them before conducting sterilization. Sterilization is done using FDA approved dental autoclave sterilizers, which make sure the items are completely disinfected and safe to use. Finally, the sanitized, packaged items are stored safely, ready for the next use.
This process follows the recommended guidelines and ensures that your visit is as safe as possible.
We are here to help!
Earning your trust and confidence is our number one priority. If you have questions about our sterilization and cleaning procedures, just give us a call! We’re happy to discuss and to provide detailed descriptions and more information.
We look forward to seeing you in our Dublin dental office soon!
