Sterilization in the Dental Office
Your health and safety when visiting our office is our primary concern. We make sure the proper controls and precautions are in place to protect our valued clients and staff. High levels of sanitation and dental sterilization are practiced to provide you with the safest possible environment.
You can rest assured that we utilize state of the art technology and protocols in cleaning dental instruments and dental office sterilization. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest quality of care in the safest possible environment.
Practices we employ to ensure your safety
Our staff goes through vigorous training to follow procedures recommended by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). We take their recommendations very seriously and incorporate best practices from each into our regular routines
We employ the latest dental sterilization equipment and machines, including dental autoclaves, dental sterilizers, and steam sterilizers. Cleaning dental instruments with these machines effectively kills bacteria and viruses using pressure, steam, and heat.
In addition, we make sure all surfaces in our practice are safe and clean by employing the use of:
- Gloves and face masks
- Disinfectant hand soap, available throughout the office
- Disposable materials whenever possible
- Chemical disinfectants to clean countertops and surfaces
- Sterilization on all equipment before and after each use
During your visit, you’ll see these best practices in action. All of our clinical staff will be wearing gloves and masks during procedures and examinations. These items will be discarded after every use. Additionally, all surfaces in exam rooms will be cleaned and sanitized using EPA approved chemicals for each patient visit.
Use of disposable materials
Most, if not all of the instruments we use in our clinic are disposable. These include gloves, face shields, masks, gowns, and items used in the exam itself, like gauze, brushes, and floss. All are safely discarded after each use.
Our team is trained in best practices when using and handling disposable materials, ensuring they are properly stored, used, and disposed of.
Use of reusable instruments
Instruments used in procedures and exams that can’t be discarded are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between each use. Our office uses the process below to ensure proper dental sterilization practices are followed:
- Cleaning – All instruments are thoroughly cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners, which make sure that bacteria, germs, and any other debris are completely removed.
- Packaging – Once cleaned, instruments are wrapped in medical-grade packaging prior to sterilization.
- Sterilization – Once safely packaged, instruments are sterilized using approved FDA dental autoclave sterilizer machines.
- Disinfecting – After each use, all surfaces and machines are thoroughly disinfected using EPA approved surface cleaners.
After they have been cleaned, packaged, and sterilized, all of our instruments are stored safely until ready for use. Our thorough dental sterilization process and protocols make sure that your only concern when visiting our office is how good your smile is going to look!
Training and our commitment to you
Your trust and confidence in our practice is of the utmost importance to us. Our staff undergoes regular training in cleaning techniques every two years to make sure that they are well-versed in practicing the most up-to-date techniques.
Our systems and procedures are frequently updated following the guidance of the American Dental Association and the CDC. If you ever have any questions, just ask! We can provide you with additional information about the steps we take to protect you and your family from viruses, bacteria, and other infectious diseases.
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Trusted by Patients Throughout Bayside & All Five Boroughs
Frequently Asked Questions
Every smile and every patient is different. The best place to start is with a comprehensive consultation at Center For Smiles. Our team will listen to your concerns, evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and explain the treatment options that may be appropriate for you. From there, we can develop a personalized plan based on your individual needs and priorities.
Your first visit is an opportunity for us to get to know you and understand what you would like to accomplish. Depending on your needs, your consultation may include a review of your dental and medical history, an examination, diagnostic imaging, and a discussion of your concerns and goals. We will then review appropriate options with you and answer your questions before moving forward with treatment.
Yes. Center For Smiles believes dental care should be tailored to the individual. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we consider your oral health, comfort, goals, lifestyle, and long-term needs when recommending treatment. Your treatment plan may involve a single procedure or a combination of services designed around you.
Absolutely. We understand that many people experience some level of dental anxiety. Our team strives to create a comfortable, supportive environment and takes time to explain your care and answer questions. Depending on your individual needs and the procedure being performed, additional comfort or sedation options may also be available.
You can request a consultation by contacting Center For Smiles or using the Schedule Consultation button on our website. Our team will help you find a convenient appointment and answer any initial questions you may have.
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Ready to Smile with Confidence?
Whether you’re looking for a trusted family dentist, considering dental implants, exploring cosmetic dentistry, or searching for relief from TMJ discomfort, we’d love the opportunity to welcome you to Center for Smiles.