Infection control is a set of recommended safety precautions that dentists implement to protect their patients and staff in the office.  Strict infection control is required to prevent the spread of disease, since many dental procedures involve direct contact with blood and saliva.  Improved infection control procedures with heightened awareness of the dangers of infection mean that the instruments and supplies your dentist uses in your mouth are either heat sterilized, or they are disposable items intended for one-time use.

 

Universal precautions, used for every patient are safety procedures established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA).  These precautions require all dental staff involved in patient care to use appropriate protective wear, such as gloves, masks and eyewear.  For more information on CDC Infection Control guidelines, please visit www.cdc.gov.