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• Sterilization guidelines 
   

• https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/6743 (Guidelines for infection control in dental health-care settings - 2003)

 

1. Preparation and Initial Cleaning

   • Use a stiff, plastic-bristled brush to scrub the sharpening surface thoroughly. This will help remove any residual metal particles from the stone.

2. Rinsing or Ultrasonic Cleaning

   • Rinse the stones thoroughly under running water to ensure all particles are washed away.

   • Alternatively, place the stones in an ultrasonic cleansing bath for a deeper clean.

3. Sterilization Preparation

   • Once the stones are clean, place them in a sterilization pouch along with any other instruments to be sterilized.

4. Autoclave Sterilization

   • Run the pouch through an Autoclave machine. The ideal steam for sterilization should be dry saturated steam with entrained water (dryness fraction ≥97%).

   • Pressure is applied to reach high temperatures needed for effective sterilization. Common settings are:

     • 121°C (250°F) for 30 minutes in a gravity displacement sterilizer, or

     • 132°C (270°F) for 4 minutes in a pre-vacuum sterilizer.

Following these steps will help ensure proper sterilization, reduce contamination risk, and maintain the effectiveness of dental sharpening stones. For further details on infection control procedures, refer to the CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings - 2003.