Infection Control Procedures
Infection control protocols are the practices performed to eliminate or minimise risk of passing any bacteria or viruses from one patient to another. While there is currently no legislation regarding infection control in dental practices, there are recognised Australian and New Zealand Standards [AS/NZS 4815] and guidelines provided by the Australian Dental Association.
We are proud of the fact that at Elegant Smiles we exceed the minimum standards and guidelines set. We support the introduction of legislation and accrediation of Infection Control procedures in dental practices.
These are just a few of the things we do to ensure your safety;
- All instruments are barcoded after sterilisation which allows us to track the instruments used for your appointment
- Alcohol-based, anti-bacterial hand gels are used routinely along with hand washing
- Plastic, impermeable barriers are used to ensure no transfer of pathogens into difficult to clean places
- Regular continuing education to maintain up-to-date standards
- Single use instruments are used where possible
- Rubber dam is used for most procedures
- Our staff all wear protective clothing including gloves, masks, glasses and gowns
All dental instruments must be sterilised after use, which kills all bacteria and viruses that may have been transferred from a patient to a dental instrument. All instruments after being thoroughly cleaned are placed in an autoclave to be sterilised. The autoclave puts the instruments under hot steam and pressure which kills all bacteria and viruses.
When you come in to see us for the first time, we will take you on a tour of the practice and show you how our sterilisation process works.