Cross Infection Control in Dentistry

A common man unaware of the term is perhaps uninformed of its significance. Cross infection control procedures are carried out in every certified health care facility in order to control the spread of infection or disease from one person to another.

Why is Cross- Infection control Crucial?

The term “Cross Infection”itself explains the transfer or spread of infection. Commonly being bacteria or viruses, their spread is to be limited by adopting certain precautions especially in a Dental Practice, thus referring to it as “

Cross- Infection Control Measurements”.

Every health care facilitator is obliged to follow International Standards of Cross Infection Control Protocols. This also includes the Dentist, dental hygienist/assistant, and lab staff.  These personnel are taught and trained in the control of infection spread and provide a clean and hygienic environment to the patients.

What Measurements are taken for cross infection control?

American Dental Association has given special recommendations for Dental practices. It is advised and followed that once a patient enters the dental room all surfaces including the dental chair, dental light, handles, countertops are clean and decontaminated. In addition, they may be covered with protective covers or sheets which are disposable and replaced for every patient.

Secondly, Dental instruments can be classified into two types, disposable and non-disposable. Disposables such as needles, cartridges, and dental tools are never used again and disposed off after single use. Non-disposable instruments undergo proper cleaning, packaging followed by sterilization in an autoclave.

Lastly, Dentists and Dental staff involved in attending and treating the patient are strictly advised to cover their clothes, hands, mouth, and eyes by gown, gloves, masks, and eyewear respectively.

What steps are taken to ensure/ review quality and cleanliness?

A leading dentist reviews all steps of sterilization and cleanliness providing the best and hygienic environment for the patients.

It is crucial to carefully monitor the steps taken for cleanliness and sterilization. Regular change of cover sheets, discarding contaminated waste, and tools are carried out.

Non- disposable instruments after a wash are packed in pouches having color code that changes after sterilization, thus indicating that sterilization via autoclave is verified.  Moreover, Surfaces and countertops are decontaminated and disinfected on a daily basis.

What to check in a clinic?

A certified clinic fulfills all the requirements of cross infection control protocols. Every individual seeking dental care has the right to ask or investigate cross infection control measurements and the use of sterilized equipment.

What Dental Aesthetics has to offer!

Dental Aesthetics is known for one of the best dentists in Lahore offers a clean, spotless, and aseptic environment for our patients. Being ranked as one of the finest clinics in DHA Lahore by the concerned authorities; Dental Aesthetics welcomes you to visit our clinic and take a tour of our lab to acknowledge our sterilization process and cross infection control precautions.

We believe in providing our patients with the best treatment in the best environment possible. Feel free to contact us for your queries and speak to a dental specialist in Lahore who can further educate and guide you about cross infection control procedures.