Chemical Disinfectants and Sterilants used in Dentistry M.D.A. Chapter 20

Chemicals used for dental asepsis are: 1. Glutaraldehyde 2. Sodium hypochlorite 3. Chlorine Dioxide 4. Iodophors 5. Synthetic Phenol Compounds *When selecting sterilization or disinfection chemicals, both effectiveness and toxic effects must be considered.*

Disinfectants Low-level disinfectants: Define Examples

Intermediate-level Disinfectants Sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) 1. EPA registered? 2. Describe its properties. How is it mixed in order to be effective? 3. What are some risks associated with its use? *We only use bleach as a low-level disinfectant for housekeeping *

Intermediate-level Disinfectants Iodophors 1. EPA registered? 2. How is it mixed? 3. Corrosive properties? 4. Does it stain? Why?

Intermediate-level Disinfectants Synthetic Phenol Compounds EPA registered? How is it mixed? How can it be used?

High-level disinfectants Glutaraldehyde EPA registered? Sterilant? If so, how long does it take? Is it toxic? Stain? How long is it good for? Is there a biological test for it?

High-level disinfectants Chlorine dioxide EPA registered? Sterilant? If so, how long does it take? How often is it mixed? Is it corrosive? Is there a biological test for it?

Laboratory Asepsis Any dental prosthesis or impression is a potential source of cross-contamination. Handle in a manner to prevent exposure to dental team members, patients, office environment and dental laboratory. Laboratory items should be autoclaved, disinfected, or discarded between patient use. Burs, rag wheels, laboratory knives, etc. Use EPA registered disinfectant to disinfect impressions All prosthesis going to lab must be disinfected and should be disinfected and rinsed when returned from the lab.