INFECTION CONTROL

Your safety is always our first priority at Spring Creek Dental. As such, we employ a strict and comprehensive infection control program that ensures that your dental care can be completed in the safest manner possible.

Evidence-based guidelines established by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA,) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) form the basis of the infection control program at Spring Creek Dental. These guidelines cover everything from hand hygiene, uniforms, the use of masks, gloves and eye protection to the cleaning and disinfection of instruments.

Education, conscientiousness and vigilance are the best defenses against the spread of infectious disease in health care settings. Standard Precautions are used for all patient care at Spring Creek Dental. They’re based on a risk assessment and make use of common sense practices and personal protective equipment use that protect healthcare providers from infection and prevent the spread of infection from patient to patient.

Our entire team completes specialized training in bloodborne pathogens and infection control on an annual basis to stay up to date with current guidelines. In addition, we employ an extensive biological monitoring program to ensure the sterilization of all reusable equipment, proper autoclave function and acceptable dental unit waterline quality.

Protocols for the disinfection and sterilization of critical reusable and disposable dental instruments are essential for preventing transmission of infectious pathogens. All reusable instruments, including dental hand pieces, are wrapped and sealed in packaging equipped with a chemical that changes color on exposure to heat. They are then sterilized after every use by autoclaving. Disposable dental instruments and supplies, including gloves and needles, are never reused on another patient.

As per CDC guidelines, each dental operatory is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between each and every patient appointment. Protective barriers are placed on contact surfaces to reduce blood and viral cross-contamination. The surface disinfectants used on all clinical contact surfaces at Spring Creek Dental are the same as what hospitals use. We use intermediate-level disinfectants that are bacteriocidal, tuberculocidal and protect against HBV, HCV, and HIV.

We will never compromise when it comes to your health and safety. If you should have any questions regarding infection control practices in use at our office please do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with any of our team members.