Infection Control in the Dental Office

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) working with the American Dental Association (ADA) have created a comprehensive plan to prevent the spread of disease in the dental setting. These stringent guidelines are taken seriously at Dr. James M. Austin’s practice. Before a patient ever steps into their operatory for treatment a series of steps have occurred prior to their visit to insure their room is completely safe from cross contamination. All counter tops, drawer handles, dental light and dental chair have been cleaned sprayed and decontaminated with special microbial wipes and sprays that kill viruses and bacteria. Heavy use items such as dental light handles, suction lines, air/water syringes are than covered with barriers which are removed and replaced between patients for additional protection. Handpieces, air/water syringe tips, and the dental tools are packaged and sent through sterilizers. Sterilizing is usually completed using steam(autoclave) or chemical sterilization(chemiclave). At Dr. Galloway’s office these machines are checked weekly using spore testing that is sent to an independent lab to insure the machines are working properly at all times. Used disposable items such as gauze, cotton rolls and suction tips are placed in special bags after use and needles are placed in specially made hard sided containers. During your individual treatment both you and your dental team will wear protective eye wear. Your dental team will also use disposable gloves and mask to protect them and you from cross contamination.

This overview of our safety procedures will hopefully help you understand the lengths we go to protect your health and safety. If you should ever have any questions concerning our infection procedures please feel free to call our office at 425 643-5778. If you would like a personal tour of our sterilization area, please do not hesitate to ask any of our staff members. They would be happy to show you!