In dentistry, there is a high risk of infection through consumables used in prosthetics, instruments, and molds. Proper sterilization helps prevent this. It must be carried out correctly and according to a set procedure, reducing the risk of infection for both patients and staff.
General Sterilization Procedure
The steps for processing dental instruments are regulated by law. The main stages include:
- Preliminary disinfection;
- Washing and cleaning of pre-sterilization instruments;
- Quality control;
- Packing in sterilization pouches;
- Labeling;
- Sterilization in an autoclave;
- Storage of sterile instruments.
Let’s look at each step in more detail.
What Is Disinfection?
The first stage of instrument sterilization is disinfection, which can be carried out in two ways:
- Manually or mechanically;
- Automatically using equipment.
Important! All dental instruments must be disinfected, but the method may vary depending on the tool.
Handpieces, for example, should not be soaked in disinfectant. Instead, use special wipes soaked in an appropriate solution. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage.
Pre-Sterilization Cleaning
This stage removes debris and residual disinfectant. The cleaning method depends on the instrument’s surface:
- Smooth instruments can be cleaned with a brush under running water;
- Porous or irregular instruments are best cleaned in an ultrasonic bath, as manual cleaning is ineffective.
An ultrasonic cleaner has a container where instruments are placed along with a cleaning solution. The device runs automatically for a set time. Afterward, instruments are dried and packaged.
Attention! Handpieces and similar devices should not be cleaned in an ultrasonic bath. Use special wipes and, before packaging, apply oil from a spray can.
Packing: What and Why?
Packing is an important step before autoclaving and ensures instruments remain sterile. Self-sealing sterilization pouches and a sealing device are convenient. Pouches may vary in size depending on the instrument.
Using a sealing machine:
- Feed the roll of pouches into the machine;
- Secure it with the lever on the right;
- Wait for the signal and indicator light to show the seal is complete;
- Cut the pouch using the left-hand lever;
- Remove the pouch and insert the instrument into the heated element for sealing.
Autoclaving
Proper sterilization of dental instruments requires an autoclave, which ensures 100% sterility. Procedure:
- Place packed instruments on the tray;
- Select the program and set the temperature to 134°C;
- The autoclave completes the process automatically.
Following these steps ensures instruments remain sterile and safe. Proper storage is also essential—use a dry, dust-free environment.
The result of proper sterilization is the safety of patients and staff, as well as the preservation of instruments.
