STERILISATION PROTOCOLS
WHAT IS STERILISATION PROTOCOL ?
Sterilization in dentistry is a crucial infection control process that eliminates all forms of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores from dental instruments and equipment. It ensures a safe and hygienic environment for every patient, preventing cross-contamination and the spread of infections during dental procedures.
WHY IS STERILISATION REQUIRED ?
Prevents Infections: Ensures patients are completely protected from exposure to harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
Compliance with Health Standards: Follows strict protocols set by the Indian Dental Association (IDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for infection control.
Protects Patients & Staff: Minimizes the risk of cross-contamination between patients and dental professionals.
Maintains Professionalism & Trust: Reflects the clinic’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of hygiene, safety, and patient care.
OUR 4 STEP STERILISATION PROCESS
- Cleaning & Disinfection : Instruments are first cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners to remove debris and organic matter. Surfaces, dental chairs, and frequently touched areas are disinfected after every patient.
- Packaging & Sealing : After cleaning, instruments are packed in sealed sterilization pouches before undergoing further sterilization.
- Autoclaving (Heat Sterilization) : We use Class B Autoclaves, the highest standard in sterilization, to kill bacteria, viruses, and spores with high-pressure steam at 121-134°C.
- Storage & Safe Handling : Sterilized instruments are stored in a contamination-free zone and only opened in front of the patient before treatment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q.1. Why is sterilization important in dentistry?
Sterilization is essential to prevent infections and cross-contamination. It ensures that all dental instruments and equipment are completely free from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores before being used on another patient.
Q.2. How are dental instruments sterilized?
Instruments are first cleaned and disinfected, then sterilized using an autoclave — a machine that uses high-pressure steam and temperature to destroy all microorganisms. They are then sealed and stored in sterile pouches until use.
Q.3. How often are instruments sterilized?
All dental instruments are sterilized after every single use, ensuring every patient is treated with completely clean and safe tools.
Q.4. Are disposable items reused?
No. All disposable items such as gloves, masks, suction tips, and needles are strictly single-use and are safely discarded after each patient.
Q.5. How do I know if a dental clinic follows proper sterilization protocols?
A professional dental clinic should maintain visible signs of hygiene — autoclave machines, sealed pouches, use of gloves and masks, and clean, organized treatment areas. You can always ask your dentist about their sterilization process; a transparent clinic will gladly explain it.