Why Is Infection Control Important In Dentistry?

• Both patients & dental health care personnel (DHCP) can be exposed to pathogens
• Contact with blood, oral and respiratory secretions, & contaminated equipment occurs
• Proper procedures can prevent transmission of infections amongst patients and DHCP

Modes of Transmission

• Direct contact with blood and bodily fluids
• Indirect contact with contaminated instruments or surface
• Contact with mucosa of the eyes, nose or mouth with droplets or spatter
• Inhalation of airborne microorganisms

The Chain of Infection

Ways to Break the Chain

Standard Precautions

• Applies to all patients
• Integrate & expand Universal Precautions to include organisms spread by blood and also...
  • Body fluids, secretions & excretions except sweat, whether or not they contain blood
  • Non-intact (broken) skin
  • Mucous membranes

Elements of Standard Precaution