Disinfect and/or sterilize dental instruments.

Disinfection should include the selection and use of chemicals that destroy or deactivate most species of pathogenic microorganisms.

Sterilization should include the destruction of all microorganisms through the use of heat and/or chemicals. 

Process/Skill Questions

• What three chemical disinfectants are most commonly used in dental offices? Why?
• What is the minimum contact time for a surface disinfectant?
• What agency regulates disinfectants?
• What three methods of sterilizing are most commonly used in dental offices? Why?