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Polyurethane elastomers are frequently used in orthodontics as ligature and chain. The unused parts of elastomeric ligatures are generally sterilized via cold sterilization since they are not heat- resistant. Disinfection of these materials in a 5% glutaraldehyde solution for a period of 10 minutes is recommended.
HIGH LEVEL OF STERILIZATION IS NEEDED INORDER TO PREVENT HEPATITIS B
AUTOCLAVE(B CLASS)
CHEMICAL STERILIZATION
For protection of both the doctor and patient, infection control is of utmost importance in preventing the spread of infectious disease. This is of special significance in dentistry because more microorganisms are found in the oral cavity than in any other part of the body. According to a study Orthodontists have the second highest incidence of hepatitis B among dental professionals [1]. Individuals undergoing treatment in dental office may be undetected hepatitis-B carriers and patients secreting herpes simplex viruses in saliva may be asymptomatic. Such patients have the potential for transmitting diseases. Diseases such as hepatitis-B, HIV and tuberculosis have long incubation period and hence, it is difficult to identify the source of such infections to the dental practioners and other patients. The greatest danger for orthodontist and his staff is from puncturing of the skin with contaminated instruments, sharp edges of orthodontic appliance, as any cuts or abrasions will allow micro-organisms to enter into the body. The microorganisms can also spread by direct contact with a lesion, by indirect contact through contaminated instruments or office equipments, by inhalation of aerosols induced by hand pieces and ultrasonic cleaners, and while scrubbing of instruments.
Sterilization and disinfection of orthodontic instruments and material Orthodontists generally do not make very intensive operations on tissues and they do not treat infectious diseases. Despite this, however, patients can carry germs that may infect other people. The use of proper sterilization techniques are important today because of the professional, ethical and legal aspects. Although it is not possible to obtain a complete sterilization in orthodontics clinics, it is possible to approache ideal sterilization by using new techniques (Akcam and Ozdiler, 1999). A study conducted by Starnbach have shown that in the fields of dentistry the orthodontists are in second raw fort he incidence of having hepatitis B. HTLV-III (AIDS) virus is weaker and less infectious. Orthodontists became more conscious of the need of surface decontamination of the tools they are using with the increase of the incidence of AIDS, like hepatitis B (Kirchoff, 1987; Mc Carthy et al.1997).
Sterilization of orthodontic pliers -
Disinfection of orthodontic brackets -
Decontamination of orthodontic bands -
Sterilization of orthodontic wires -
Disinfection of elastomeric ligatures -
