Sterilization Protocol

All government standards for infection control (a term used to describe methods used to maintain a biologically clean environment in a healthcare setting) are observed in our office. This means that every instrument used in the delivery of orthodontic care is sterilized prior to placement in a patient’s mouth. Our sterilization equipment is tested weekly for efficacy by an independent laboratory. Surfaces throughout the treatment area are disinfected after each patient visit. The doctor and staff are aptly trained in infection control protocol, and are required to wear gloves when performing procedures in the oral cavity.

While it is required that all healthcare providers meet minimum standards to prevent cross contamination among patients, our practice has developed a protocol that significantly exceeds these mandates. Here are just a few examples of how we employ additional aseptic techniques (a term used to describe methods to minimize the presence of microorganisms, or “germs”) in our office.

• Municipal water is not used for procedures in the mouth. Instead, sterile water is used in specially designed systems with supply lines

 

that are chemically treated on a weekly basis to eliminate the possibility of biofilms.

• Disposable products are used liberally throughout the treatment area of the office where possible. These products are discarded after use on a patient.

• Surface barriers are also employed liberally in the treatment area. For example, chairs are covered with plastic sheeting that is discarded after each patient visit. Several other fixtures of the treatment unit are also covered and discarded after each patient visit.

• Unit-dose packaging is used liberally. For example, each archwire (the wire that connects the braces on the teeth) used in treatment is individually prepackaged in a sealed packet. The packet is opened just prior to placement in the mouth, ensuring that a perfectly clean wire is used every time.

While it is possible to completely sterilize braces (brackets) for recycling, it is the policy of this practice to NEVER RECYCLE BRACKETS for use on multiple patients. This means that each patient treated in our practice receives newly manufactured braces, wires, and appliances.

This site was developed in conjunction with the
American Association of Orthodontists.

© 2003 American Association of Orthodontists