Key Takeaways
- Dentists are experts in infection prevention and control.
- There are guidelines that all dentists must follow to protect you.
- Your safety is your dentist’s priority.
Dentists have always followed very strict infection prevention and control (IPAC) standards. Their priority is to protect everyone in the office from the spread of bacteria and illness.
Dentists must follow the IPAC standards of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO). The RCDSO is only one part of a larger system in Ontario that provides guidance to dentists on IPAC standards. Other key bodies include the Ontario Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario and local Public Health Units. These standards cover areas including:
- Screening of patients
- Hand hygiene
- Sterilization, handling, and storage of equipment and materials
- Disposal of items such as gloves and syringes
- Personal protective equipment
- Education and training
Dentists and their teams get the most current evidence-based information on IPAC techniques. They pursue continuing education activities as part of their commitment to lifelong learning. If you have questions about health and safety in the dental office, ask your dentist. They want to make you feel more comfortable and secure about your dental visit.
Find out more about IPAC in dentistry on the RCDSO website.