Journal of the American Dental Association, Vol 96, Issue 4, 621-624
Copyright © 1978 by American Dental Association
An inquiry into the sterilization of dental handpieces relative to transmission of hepatitis B virus
RG Sanger,
BA Bradford,
and
JM Delaney
The transmission of the hepatitis B virus has been implicated in the dental office. The dental profession should be keenly aware of aseptic clinical techniques and effective sterilization procedures. Some dental handpieces can be damaged by conventional sterilization procedures. Alternative procedures are discussed. A review of currently available handpieces and their appropriate sterilization procedures is presented.