Protecting surfaces

Although it is practically impossible to maintain a completely sterile environment in the dental surgery, proven methods and procedures do exist that can be put into place if the surgery is to come as close as possible to bacteria-free perfection. What's more, this high level of decontamination should also be maintained throughout the entire practice and not be confined to the surgery. Dangerous pathogens can easily spread from room to room within the building, so high standards across the board are important.

Communal areas

Reception and communal waiting areas should be subjected to an equally high level of caution as in the surgery. Everyone who enters or leaves the practice is likely to stop here, so it is important it is kept as clean and tidy as possible. Offering a bottle of alcohol hand disinfectant at reception with a note advising all patients and visitors to disinfect their hands is a good idea. It is imperative toilets and bathroom areas are kept clean and well maintained. The provision of hot water, liquid soap and paper towels for hand washing is essential, and toilets should be checked regularly throughout the day and cleaned thoroughly every day.