Optimal infection control. Utilizing an autoclave in the dental laboratory.

Abstract

Articles in recent dental journals are strongly advising our dentist customers to require their laboratories to provide them with information regarding in-laboratory cross contamination control procedures. New strains of infectious diseases are emerging. Because of over use, some antibiotics are losing their effectiveness. The Center for Disease Control and The World Health Organization assert that emerging infections represent a global threat. Disinfection (use of glutaraldehyde, iodophors, and chlorine compounds) is generally less lethal to pathogenic organisms than sterilization. By using an autoclave in our laboratory we have taken the logical "next step" to protect our dentists and their patients.