Dentists, hygienists, and assistants are wearing surgical gloves, eye glasses, and masks with each patient to prevent the possibility of microorganisms from being transferred during dental procedures. 2 Dental instruments are heat sterilized, or autoclaved, between each patient to protect against the possibility of cross-contamination from one patient to another. Heat sterilization kills any potentially harmful microorganisms. Dental personnel are vaccinated against the hepatitis B virus. Special precautions are taken in the handling and disposal of potentially hazardous waste and materials in the dental office.
All dental personnel receive training in patient and environmental protection procedures.
The new sterilization procedures being used are costly, but important, considering the protection that is provided. As a result, you may see a slight increase in your dental bill that reflects a portion of this expense. The Centers for Disease Control of the Public Health Service, the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association, state boards of health, schools of dentistry, and many other health agencies and professional associations are strongly supportive of these measures. There are several things you should do. This will help your dentist provide the best treatment based on your health needs.