What Is A Dental Sterilization Center?

A dental sterilization center is one of the most important features in any dental office. It isn't just about having a well functioning product. It is about having the possibilities to streamline the entire process of sterilizing dental equipment. It has to be easy and safe and it shouldn't take up too much time. With the right dental sterilization center, your dental staff will be able to be far more efficient, while ensuring all your equipment meets the necessary standards and more. The sterilization center is often the heart of a well functioning dental practice, so you must make sure that you have this in order. Let's take a look at some of the things you should expect as a minimum from your dental sterilization center.

Expected Features on a Dental Sterilization Center

The first thing you need to look at is the area for receiving, cleaning and decontaminating. This area has to be secure and functional, but you also need to consider the ergonomic features. The center has to be easy to use and it has to be completely safe for the operator, minimizing the risk of accidents and injury but also of bottlenecks. Next, you need to consider the preparation and packaging area. This is incredibly important and you must be sure it meets all the standards as set by the CDC in terms of controlling infection. All of the sections should be separated by partitions or walls, so that the flow of traffic is controlled and any contaminants that are often generated during process should be contained. Then, there is the actual sterilization area. It has to be easy to use and easy to maintain. Make sure it is well constructed and includes surface shelving so you can hold multiple autoclaves or smaller sterilizers. Think of ease of use as well, such as easy to move shelves. Lastly, you need to consider the storage area. Again, this has to be very easy to use and maximize the efficiency of the area itself. Use wire racks that can swivel and that are easy to adjust for instance. Make sure you have good viewing panels so all the contents can be inspected easily. Also, the handles on the doors should be easy to use, but also easy to clean.

How to Find a Dental Sterilization Center

Now that you know what you should expect from a dental sterilization center, you are ready to find one. Make sure you take the time to compare the different dental sterilization center manufacturers and re-sellers out there that focus specifically on dental practices. Many of these companies deal with the full dental office, so you may even get discounts if you also purchase other items through them. Take the time to receive a good number of quotations and see what each has to offer. It can be very useful, for instance, to also have a design service to help you get the most out of your space, and you may also want to consider an installation service.