Infection prevention is a top priority in modern dentistry to protect both patients and staff. Every registered dental clinic follows strict protocols to ensure that the environment and tools are safe. You will notice staff wearing personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and eye protection. These barriers are changed between every patient to prevent the spread of germs and ensure a high standard of hygiene throughout the clinic.
Dental instruments go through a rigorous cleaning and sterilisation process. Most metal tools are cleaned and then placed in a machine called an autoclave, which uses high-pressure steam to kill all bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Items that cannot be sterilised, such as needles, suction tips, and certain plastic components, are strictly single-use and are disposed of safely after one application. This ensures that every tool used in your mouth is either brand new or completely sterile.
Clinics also maintain high standards for surface cleanliness. Work surfaces, dental chairs, and lights are wiped down with hospital-grade disinfectants between every appointment. The water lines used in dental units are also regularly treated to ensure the water used during your treatment is clean. These invisible behind-the-scenes efforts are essential for preventing cross-contamination and maintaining a safe clinical setting for everyone.
This guidance has been withdrawn while it awaits confirmation by a registered dentist. Please consult a registered dentist for advice on this point.