Proper sterilization of instruments in a clinic

A dentist would not want to use a dirty instrument on a patient. Since this can be a cause of infection or cross-contamination. Yet, the proper sterilization of instruments can avoid this event. The Melag Autoclave is a trusted equipment for sterilization, used by many clinics worldwide.

Sterilizers destroy microorganisms by means of high temperature. It is a cost-effective method that is necessary for every dental practice.

There are three types of sterilizers that you can find in the dental clinic:

• Autoclaves – This sterilizer uses steam to kill pathogens.
• Dry Heat Sterilizers – It uses static air or forced air to kill germs.
• Unsaturated Chemical Vapor Sterilizers – It uses chemicals like alcohol, acetone, and water to name a few.

How to sterilize your dental instruments?

1. Protect yourself by wearing gloves, smocks, face masks, and eye protection. This can give you protection from contamination when cleaning the tools.
2. Soak your tools before cleaning. This can make any leftover debris softer, which makes it easier to remove.
3. Clean your instruments before steaming. This could prevent corrosion and material build-up.
4. Dry your dental instruments. If you put it wet in the sterilizer, it will come out as wet that may diminish the effectiveness of sterilization. Moisture can also serve as a breeding site for bacteria.
5. Wrap your instruments and seal it. This prevents your instruments from getting exposed to the air after sterilizing since the air in the clinic might contaminate the sterilized tools.
6. Stack the instruments in the sterilizer in an organized way. Putting the packed instruments too close to each other is not advisable. Since this could prevent the proper circulation of sterilizing agents.
7. Put your dental instruments in a safe place. Safekeeping of the dental instruments can prevent contamination and sharp accidents.

Sterilization prevents the spread of diseases between patients. It can also protect you as a health provider. This process can also save someone from further life-threatening complications.