According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) guidelines, cleaning is the first step in the disinfection process of a dental office. Although this information comes as no surprise, there is always a right way and a wrong way to clean. In addition to cleaning up after each patient to ensure a sanitary work environment, it is essential that dental offices hire an experienced and highly trained cleaning staff to thoroughly disinfect the entire office in accordance with both CDC and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines. It is important to find out if your dentist has hired a cleaning company has gone through OSHA training and certification to ensure effective techniques are used otherwise the disinfection process could be ineffective causing risk to the staff and patients.
- surfaces must be cleaned with disinfectants then wiped with water to remove microorganisms from areas such as:
- light handles
- switches
- dental x-ray equipment
- dental chair-side computers
- reusable containers of dental materials
- drawer handles
- faucet handles
- countertops
- desk/work areas
- telephones
- doorknobs
- reception area
- trash receptacles
- floors
- walls
- blinds
- upholstery (using appropriate equipment)
What cleaners need to use:
In order for the surfaces to be truly disinfected, professional dental office cleaners must use an EPA-registered hospital low-level (HIV or HBV claim) or intermediate level (tuberculocidal claim) disinfecting agent. If an area is contaminated with blood, the intermediate level cleaner must be used. Cleaning companies should bring new cleaning solution for each visit that was mixed that day in order to be effective. Your dentist's commercial cleaning company must wash used mops, cloths and any other cleaning item after each use that are allowed to dry before it is reused. If possible, disposable cleaning tools should be used to best avoid spreading germs.
It is important to take a proactive approach when selecting a dental office. Your health as well as your teeth must be protected!
For more information on dentists and dental practices, please visit these Dental Associations:
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