The use of disposable, impervious barriers is applied wherever practical, and especially where adequate cleaning and disinfection is difficult or impractical. Cleaning as a separate step from disinfection and sterilization is of high priority and cannot be overemphasized. A waste management system, including collection, transfer, and final disposal of general and infectious waste must be established to meet federal, state and local requirements. A written protocol shall be developed for proper instrument processing, operatory cleanliness and management of injuries. These items must be sterilized.
Surgical procedures are entries into normally sterile areas of the body.
These items require sterilization or high level disinfection. They may be exposed to aerosol sprays, spatter, or splashing of blood or touched by contaminated hands. An intermediate level or low level disinfection is required. Examples include the dental chair, unit and x-ray heads. All new dental health care workers should receive initial training with annual update training thereafter.