Infection control procedures are an integral part of the treatments given in dental offices.

There are commonly four ways of transmitting disease in dental offices such as direct contact of skin with blood, orally transmitted fluids and other possibly infected types of materials, direct or indirect contact with instruments or environmental surfaces that may be contaminated such as dental instruments, equipment, or other types of surfaces, contact with various mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, or mouth, or the inhalation of airborne contagious and infectious microorganisms that are commonly transported by air.

Infection Control Procedures for the Staff

Hands are one of the most common ways that contagions are transmitted. By making sure that you are constantly washing your hands or using dry sanitizers whenever washing isn’t possible, you are contributing to the most effective way of reducing the chance of risking disease through transmission by the hands. Hand washing must be the most important thing to remember when implementing infection control procedures. Always washing the hands after each procedure and before and after each and every appointment, and doing so appropriately with soap and water ensures that we are doing our utmost through infection control procedures to prevent the spread of any contagions.

Always use new gloves that are disposable each time that the hands are washed. Always make sure that any and all equipment is sterilized after each use and after each patient. Make an effort to use disposable instruments and other types of tools whenever possible. Disposable equipment and gloves provides another level of protection against spreading any types of disease from one patient to the other. This is crucial when performing any type of surgical or other type of procedures. Always wearing a mask can also prevent any contagions from being transmitted from the professional to the patient or vice versa. Protective eyewear is another safety precaution to use.

Infection Control Procedures

Infection can result from surfaces that are not properly cleaned such as instruments, surfaces, and water lines. There are steps that can be taken to make sure that these areas are not a risk to the patient.

– Sterilize all dental instruments

– Disposable supplies should be utilized whenever possible to do so.

– Clean lines regularly according to the standards required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

– Use proper protective barriers on exposed surfaces such as handles on light fixtures and other equipment.

– Make sure that all biological dental waste and sharps, such as needles, are disposed of properly in containers that are labeled and deemed to be for that purpose only. Bio-medical disposal companies should be called for removal so that these things are taken care of properly.

Taking Infection Control Seriously

Infection control standards should be taken seriously while meeting or exceeding government standards. It is important to follow these standards to ensure the health and welfare of each and every patient.

All staff members are required to be vaccinated for Hepatitis B to prevent the spread of this disease for your safety.

Houston Dentist is an expert in cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dental teeth procedures and infection control procedures.

For your dental needs please contact us at http://www.houstondentists.org/

Author Bio: Houston Dentist is an expert in cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dental teeth procedures and infection control procedures.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Infection Control Procedures, Dental Hygiene, Oral Surgery, Gum Mouth Disease