Principles of Infection Control in Orthodontics

You likely have a good understanding of infection control protocols — after all, they are a standard part of training and the hallmark of patient safety.

However, orthodontic instruments can present a special challenge because of their smaller parts and hinges. Often, it’s difficult to find a material that can kill organisms without damaging the instruments.

Fortunately, Diatech has the solution through its extensive array of Certol products.

We recently switched to the Certol brand because their products are effective against COVID-19 and can kill resistant pathogens such as mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB). It also inactivates herpes and HIV.

We’ll take a quick look at the specific challenges infection control presents in orthodontics and provide efficient solutions to your challenges.

Effective Principles of Infection Control in Dental Offices

Handwashing

You know how important gloves and washing your hands are to maintain hygiene. But were you aware that cold water is preferable to hot water?

According to the Journal of Orthodontics and Endodontics, hands should be washed in cold water with germicidal soap for at least one minute. Hot water is not ideal because it may cause pores to open and remove skin oils. These oils serve as another protection layer for your skin. After washing, administer a hand disinfectant.

Medical History

Have you considered your patients’ medical history as a part of infection control? By identifying an accurate medical history, you’re more likely to determine which patients may be carrying certain pathogenic organisms.

Cleaning Equipment

Your equipment should be wiped down frequently. That includes the chair, table and light handles. Make sure that your cleanser can be used on a variety of surfaces.

That’s why it’s important to use our Certol ProSpray, which can be used on plastics, tubing, metals, vinyl and even faux leather because it is a water-based formula. It’s even safe to use around electronics.

Why Is it Challenging to Clean Orthodontic Instruments?

While maintaining effective and flawless sterilization procedures is always a challenge, orthodontic instruments are in a class of their own because they present these unique challenges:

Their Many Surfaces Make Them Difficult to Clean

The challenge centers on the design of the instruments themselves.

There are places that are challenging to reach if using regular brushes or cloths. Even cotton swabs may have problems reaching these spaces.

However, these challenges can be met by using ultrasonic cleaners. These use microscopic cavitation. In short, because it is submerged, this means even the smallest openings will be cleansed properly and thoroughly.

They Can Corrode Easily

While all dental equipment can be prone to corrosion, the unique shape and design of orthodontic instruments presents difficulties.

This is why it’s vital that you use an ultrasonic cleaning solution that has anti-corrosive agents  that work effectively even after prolonged cleaning cycles.

Remember: Foaming Cleansers Interfere With Energy Transmission

Some orthodontists may not realize they are using foaming detergents with their ultrasonic cleaning devices. This can damage instruments over time. Why? Because they inhibit the energy transmission that is a vital part of this cleaning process.

Good Vibrations Checks All the Boxes for Your Orthodontic Instrument Sterilization

At Diatech, we don’t merely offer products—we offer solutions. This means we understand the challenges and importance of infection control in dental offices.

This is why, after careful consideration, we decided to carry Good Vibrations, a detergent-based cleaner that meets the demand for non-enzymatic, more environmentally friendly products for use in ultrasonic instrument cleaning devices.

It offers the following advantages:

• It’s non-foaming, so it won’t interfere with ultrasonic processing
• It’s anti-corrosive
• It’s perfect for hinged instruments
• It can be used on delicate dental and eye instruments
• It’s a great choice for cassette-based instrument managed systems

It’s Easy to Order Direct From Diatech

You have enough to worry about—ordering your supplies, cleaners and gold diamond burs should be a seamless, easy process.

That’s why at Diatech, we’re focused on providing not only the highest-quality products, but also in providing stellar customer service that is without equal.

Contact us today to experience Diatech for yourself.