The last time you visited your dentist’s office, you probably noticed that the dentist, hygienist and assistant were wearing gloves, mask and eye protection. Perhaps you also noticed special coverings on the dental instruments and equipment.

These special safety precautions are called universal precautions and are used for every patient in the dental practice to prevent the transmission of any infectious diseases. These safety procedures were established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Dental Association.

These precautions require all dental staff who provide patient care to use appropriate protective wear such as gloves, and sometimes masks and eyewear. After each patient visit, the gloves are discarded, hands are washed and a new pair of gloves is used for the next patient.

Virtually all dentists sterilize the dental drill, also called a handpiece, between patients. Dental offices follow specific heat sterilization procedures that are outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Dental Association. Disposable items, such as needles and saliva ejectors, cannot be sterilized and are used once and then thrown away in special containers.

If you want to know about how your dental office cleans and sterilizes its dental instruments you should ask to see the sterilization room. Since the sterilization equipment usually is not in the treatment room, if you'd like to see how and where it's done, ask the dental staff to show you.

A lot of the sterilization and cleaning takes place before you enter the exam room. For example, all surfaces, including the dental chair, dental light, drawer handles and countertops are thoroughly cleaned. Some offices may cover this equipment with protective covers, which are replaced after each patient.

Don't let questions about safety keep you away from the dentist's office, or cause stress while you're there, when a short chat with your dentist can set your mind at ease.

Your dental health is too important to ignore. Remember to learn the facts about your dentist's infection control procedures by talking with your dentist.

Checklist for Dental Patients

Your Michigan Dental Association dentist cares about your health and well-being. Next time you visit your dentist, watch how each of the items is handled:

• Washing hands and changing gloves.
• Wearing protective clothing.
• Sterilizing and disinfecting instruments and equipment.
• Keeping the office spotlessly clean.
• Properly cleaning dental handpieces.
• Using throwaway items.
• Proper disposal of waste.