Sterilization Protocol

When patients come to us for their dental care, we want them to know that their safety is our top priority. At Pike & Valega, DDS, we have carefully created a dental sterilization protocol that keeps our patients and our entire dental team safe and healthy.

Learn more about how our dental sterilization protocols and procedures are used to create a safe environment where we can provide high-quality dental care to the Poolesville and Rockville, MD communities.

Our Dental Team Undergoes Regular Training in Safety Protocols

Our safety and sterilization protocols and procedures were created using the advice and recommendation of various organizations such as The Center for Disease Control (CDC), Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Our dental team has received extensive training in these protocols and procedures. We also hold regular training sessions so our dental team is constantly updated on the latest protocols and procedures.

Keeping Patients Healthy and Safe With Our In-Office Protocols and Procedures

We have taken precautions to keep our patients healthy and safe when they visit us for their dental care. Some examples of the practices and procedures we do to keep our patients safe include:

• Clinical staff wearing disposable masks and gloves during all procedures and exams
• Using EPA-approved chemical disinfectants to clean all surfaces and countertops
• Sterilizing all equipment that is non-disposable before and after use
• Using the best state-of-the-art equipment such as dental sterilizers, dental autoclaves, and steam sanitizers to clean and disinfect equipment
• Proper handling, storage and disposal of materials used during an exam or procedure
• Constantly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces before, during and after appointments
• Using disposable equipment and items when possible (face masks, gloves, dental floss, gauze and brushes)

How We Approach Sterilizing Non-Disposable Equipment

We try to use disposable items whenever possible. However, certain procedures and exams require the use of non-disposable equipment. Our sterilization protocol for these items helps to keep our patients healthy and safe.

When we use non-disposable equipment, we practice the following sterilization protocol:

• Clean – We use state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaners to make sure all bacteria, germs and other types of debris have been removed.
• Package – Newly cleaned items are properly placed into FDA-approved packages and prepared for sterilization.
• Sterilization – FDA-approved autoclave sterilizers are used to sterilize the instruments.
• Disinfect – EPA-approved cleaners are used to clean all surfaces and any equipment used.

Once all items and equipment are properly cleaned and sanitized, we properly store them until they are needed again.

To keep up with the latest industry recommendations and research, we continuously review and make changes to our dental sterilization protocol.

We welcome you to contact our Poolesville dental office or Rockville dental office if you have any specific questions regarding our dental sterilization practices and procedures.