Sterilization protocol for your dental practice

The sterilization protocol begins with the collection of instruments and materials. Potential operator exposure to biological agents begins with collection of the used materials; these must be transported in closed carts designed for this purpose. 

Operators responsible for receiving and washing instruments may handle them while wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

The next step is disinfection, performed either manually or with thermal disinfectors. 

In manual disinfection, the choice of disinfectant formulations takes into account their effectiveness against biological risk agents and their compatibility with the materials to be treated. In automatic disinfection, the material is placed inside the device and follows a specific disinfection programme.

The wash phase is essential to ensure correct sterilization in the autoclave; it allows organic and inorganic residues to be removed from the instruments. 

Washing may be performed manually or mechanically using ultrasound tanks, if compatible with the materials to be treated.

After manual cleansing, rinse first with running water and then with softened water to remove any detergent residues left on the instruments.

After rinsing, the material is dried with lint-free paper towels or fabric cloths. During this stage, it is important to use suitable PPE to avoid accidental injuries.

All parts of the materials are now carefully inspected to check their integrity, that they are functioning correctly and are ready for surgical use. 

All materials with damaged parts (e.g. breakages or rust), must be repaired or treated with specific maintenance and lubrication products.

Sterilization pouches now create a physical barrier and maintain sterility until the instrument is used again. 

Correct packaging is essential to create and maintain a physical barrier between the instruments and the outside world, guaranteeing sterility over time.

Sterilization in an autoclave makes the instruments usable again. It is the stage of the reconditioning process in which any residual microorganisms not removed after washing and disinfection are rendered inactive.

Traceability makes it possible to uniquely identify key data relating to the load and its processing; this is done via a label that is subsequently associated with the patient's medical record.

Storage ensures that instruments remain sterile. It is always performed on a FIFO (First-In First-Out) basis. Sterilized instruments must be stored in their pouches, in clean areas that are far from any sources of heat or light.