How Are Dental Tools Sterilized?
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Proper sterilization of invasive instruments such as dental tools is extremely important to the practice of dentistry. Without proper sterilization of these tools, as well as dental equipment, various blood and saliva-borne pathogens can easily be transferred or shared among patients. In this light, contaminated or inadequately sterilized tools and equipment are unacceptable.
Saturated Steam
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Saturated steam under pressure is one of the most preferred methods of sterilizing and decontaminating dental tools. It is also the decontamination method most recommended by dental tool manufacturers, as it takes care of virtually all nature of dental materials and instruments.
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Steam and Chemical Sterilizers
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This method uses non-saturated steam at 132 degrees Celsius and a solution of chemical and water. The sterilizing cycle runs for about 20 to 30 minutes. One advantage of this method is that it does not corrode carbide steel and other corrosion-sensitive materials of dental instruments. Its only downside is that it produces a typically hazardous chemical residue, which explains the need to perform the process in a well-ventilated area.
Iodophors
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Iodophors are iodine-based chemical solutions that are used for their powerful germicidal action. They also reduce the caustic capacity and staining effects of the common pathogens found on the tools. The tools are usually soaked for about 5 to 20 minutes in the solution to be effectively sterilized.
Chemical Sterilization and Disinfection
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Compared to the method that uses steam, this mode of sterilization does not subject the tools to high heat. Its disinfecting action relies on how long the tools will be soaked in the solution. In addition, this method also relies on adequate cleaning and brushing off of dental debris from the surface. Phenols, various combinations of synthetic preparations, are sometimes used to decontaminate dental tools. They work well with cleaners such as detergents; however, they may cause rusting of the tools.
Pre-vacuum Steam Autoclaving
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This sterilizing machine is ideal for those tools that are sensitive to heat and moisture. The pre-vacuum sterilizers are fitted with a pump to create a vacuum in the chamber where the tools will be placed, allowing positive steam penetration throughout the entire load. For tools that are heat- or moisture-sensitive, the chemical Ethylene Oxide (EO) is used.
Commonly Sterilized Dental Tools
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The commonly sterilized dental tools and equipment include mouth mirros, detectors, excavators, pliers, elevators, burs, dental forceps, dental scalers and tips and turbine hand pieces. The medical technicians who are responsible for sterilizing dental tools and equipment usually do record-keeping of the tools, the chemicals used and the maintenance of sterilizing equipment. They monitor the shelf life of the chemicals to be cautious of their expiration date and efficacy.
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