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Office Infection Control And Sterilization Procedures
Today, safety is on everyone’s mind. Safety in the orthodontic office is no exception. So, we want you to know about our infection control and sterilization procedures. While these procedures are not new to our office, we are continually upgrading these procedures as new guidelines, procedures, and equipment become available. We treat each patient exactly the same, and therefore use Universal Precautions for each patient. We strive to provide the highest level of safety, and we want you to feel comfortable knowing that these procedures are being routinely performed. Our procedures include:
- Barrier Controls
which are recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the American Dental Association (ADA). They include the use of masks and protective eye wear when indicated, and the use of new gloves for each patient.
- Ultrasonic Rinsing
of all tools and instruments prior to sterilization. This is performed after each patient.
- Dry Heat Sterilization
of all tools and instruments after each patient appointment. This process kills all micro-organisms with heat.
- Chemical Sterilization
is used for all items that cannot withstand the high temperatures required for dry heat sterilization or steam autoclaving. The sterilizing solutions are approved for use in hospitals, dental offices, and other health care environments.
- Individual Set-ups
for each procedure with sealed bags of sterilized instruments, opened at the chair just prior to use.
- Disposable Items
are used whenever possible and are always discarded once used or exposed to the clinical environment.
- Disinfectants
are applied to chairs, counter tops, and other surface areas in all treatment rooms.
We are committed to staying current with the latest in infection control and sterilization guidelines. When you visit our office, you can feel confident that your health and the health of your family is protected.
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