Disinfection and Sterilization in Dental Clinics: Essential Practices in the pandemic era maintaining a clean and sterile environment in dental clinics is crucial for patient safety. The proper protocol is always cleaning first and disinfection afterwards. Let’s delve into the key processes: cleaning and disinfection
Cleaning:
Purpose: Cleaning involves removing dirt and organic material using pre-disinfectant, soap and water. While it eliminates a significant portion of microorganisms, it does not eradicate all of them.
Method: Use pre-disinfectant, soap and water to destroy dirt and organic matter.
UMONIUM STERILY are designed for pre-disinfection.
Disinfection:
Purpose: Disinfection aims to kill microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, spores and fungi) on surfaces and instruments.
UMONIUM INSTRUMENTS eliminates viruses and proceeds to high-level disinfection of the instruments treated as fast as 60 seconds.
Levels of Disinfection:
Pre-Disinfection: Suitable for non-critical equipment, usually take longer time. It kills fungi and some bacteria.
High-Level Disinfection: Required for resistant viruses and spores, the contact time can be as fast as in 60 seconds
Critical Instruments:
Sharp surgical tools (e.g., surgical, periodontal, or endodontic instruments) must always be disinfect or sterilized after use.
Non-Critical Instruments:
Items like light-curing lamps, chair buttons, and intra-oral X-ray equipment that come into contact with patients or aerosols are considered non-critical and should be disinfected between patients.
By adhering to these essential practices of cleaning and disinfection, dental clinics can ensure a safe and hygienic environment for patients, staff, and practitioners alike.