Infection controls and universal precautions protect clients and staff alike. Everyone benefits from rigorous infection control — you, your dentist, and the dental team. The cornerstone in a good and safe dental practice is the element of trust. You should feel free to discuss this topic with Dr. Koth and receive a straightforward answer.
Dr. Koth and our entire team follow procedures recommended by several federal agencies: the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). These measures include:
- Disinfectant hand soap and lotion
- Gloves and face masks
- Chemical disinfection of countertops and surfaces
- Sterilization of all equipment before every use with autoclaves
- Disposable materials
- Yearly classes to make sure we are compliant with OSHA standards for dental offices
We sterilize all reusable equipment, including dental hand pieces. We use an autoclave, a device that kills bacteria and viruses by steam, heat and pressure. We spore test our autoclaves weekly to ensure their in proper working condition. Our staff wears detection badges to be sure they are not getting any radiation when taking x-rays. All of these things to prevent contamination or cross-infection of all our staff, doctors, and patients.
The best defense against disease is information. The more you know, the better equipped you are to make wise decisions about your health care. The more you know about our daily procedures and policies, the more comfortable you will feel.