Fiona M. Collins

In the technologically advanced world we live in today, how are medical devices keeping up? In this post we will review the development of technology and advancement within the sterilization equipment.

In the world of steam sterilizers, it is useful to debunk some seemingly critical terms. In this article, we will make these suggestions!

There is a very real risk associated with viral transmission in the dental office. It is the responsibility of dentists to ensure they are well versed in preventative measures for the safety of themselves, their staff and patients. It is important now more than ever during the Coronavirus pandemic to receive the proper guidance with regards to reducing your overall risk within your daily dental practice routine, especially when it comes to instrument reprocessing.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a heightened awareness of airborne or contact contamination has drawn attention to sterile processing. There is no doubt that dentists across the country are vigilant about the importance of sterilizing their instruments, however, it must be clear that reprocessing requires a series of standardized, repeatable, effective and safe steps.

Sterilization monitoring is necessary for each autoclave load, including mechanical and chemical indicators as required and recommended, plus, depending on your location, spore testing (biological indicators). Spore testing provides a reliable method for sterility assurance. Unlike mechanical or chemical indicators, spore testing determines that spores – the most resistant microorganisms – have been killed during sterilization.

Autoclaves are a critical part of effective infection control in the dental office. Whether you are looking to purchase your next autoclave, an additional autoclave, or your first autoclave, there are a number of considerations. Let’s focus in on tabletop autoclaves, the most frequently used in dental clinics.

What will look like the process of designing your dental practice? Ideally, it will be functional an appear to be sleek, streamlined, elegant and say something about you, the dentist who manages it. It should reflect the high level of service you provide to your patients and how much you care about them.

To avoid recontamination after sterilization, packages must be dry after completion of the drying cycle when they leave the sterilizer. A ‘wet pack’ has moisture on or in the pack when removed from the autoclave. Moisture may be evident as visible dampness, droplets, or puddled water on or within a pack. Wet packs are subject to ‘wicking’ – they allow microorganisms to enter through the packaging, resulting in recontamination of sterile instruments. Wet packs can also cause instrument corrosion. It is essential that wet packs be identified and completely reprocessed. Read on to learn more about many causes and solutions to the problem of wet packs.