Why You Should Always Ask About Sterilization at the Dentist

The Clean Bite

Welcome Back to The Clean Bite: Let’s Talk About Sterilization

Hi friends, welcome back to The Clean Bite! Today, I want to share a story that really got me thinking, and might get you thinking too.

A Simple Question Turned Uncomfortable

Recently, a friend of mine (not from the dental field, but an infection control enthusiast like myself) visited a new dental office. Naturally curious, she asked the hygienist a very straightforward question:

“Can you tell me about your sterilization protocols?”

What happened next surprised her.

The hygienist seemed offended by the question. She responded curtly, implying my friend should simply trust that the office follows CDC guidelines. But do they really? And more importantly, why did a fair, responsible question trigger such a defensive reaction?

Was my friend questioning the hygienist’s integrity? Or was she doing what we should all feel empowered to do—ask informed questions about our own care?

A Personal Reflection: We Trust More Than We Question

That interaction reminded me of something: When my mom had knee surgery recently (she’s doing great, by the way!), I asked the surgeon about his experience. But I never thought to ask about the sterilization protocols in the operating room (OR).

Why not?

I trusted the hospital. I trusted the system. But in hindsight, I had every right to ask — and so do you.

Why Don’t We Ask More Questions?

When it comes to medical and dental environments, we tend to avoid “rocking the boat.” We assume that protocols are followed and that our questions may come across as confrontational. But here’s the truth:

We have the right to ask.

Those who are confident in their practices should have no problem answering.

How to Ask About Sterilization—Without the Awkwardness

If you’re wondering how to approach this without feeling uncomfortable or making others feel uncomfortable, here are a few tips to use before and during your next dental appointment.

1. Start Early—On the Phone

a. When booking your appointment
Most offices follow a standard intake script, which typically includes the patient's name, insurance information, and concerns. Use this opportunity to ask,

“Can you tell me about your sterilization protocols?”

This “preheats” the conversation, allowing the office to prepare a thoughtful response.

b. When they confirm your appointment
This is another chance to reiterate your interest in infection control procedures. Repetition = normalization.

c. If you are already an established patient
You already have a relationship with your dental team, use it!
Ask how they treat their water (this has been a topic in the national news!) or how often they conduct spore tests.

2. Day of Your Appointment

When you arrive, you’re usually greeted by the front office staff. If needed, restate your interest in understanding their sterilization procedures.

3. In the Chair

Your hygienist or assistant may ask if you have any questions. This is the perfect time to bring it up again.

“Could you walk me through your sterilization process? I’ve been seeing things on social media that make me wonder what my dental office is doing to protect me during my visit.”

What Should You Look For?

Even if the staff explains their protocol, there are visual cues you can look for to ensure proper infection control.

In the treatment room (also known as operatory):

• Cleanliness & Organization: It should be spotless and clutter-free.
• Sterilized Instruments:Instruments should be in sealed packaging and opened in front of you.
• PPE: Staff should wear gloves, masks, and protective eyewear. Don’t forget eyewear for the patient too!
• Disposable Barriers: Covers on light handles, chair controls, trays, and other similar items should be changed between patients.
• Hand Hygiene: Look for sinks or hand sanitizing stations nearby.
• Ergonomic Chair: Should be clean, comfortable, and adjustable.
• Emergency Equipment: A first-aid kit and oxygen supply should be accessible.
• CDC Compliance: Practices should align with official infection prevention guidelines.

Ask to See the Sterilization Area (Yes, You Can!)

You are well within your rights to ask about the behind-the-scenes sterilization area. A safe office should be proud to walk you through their processes. Here’s what to look for:

• FDA-Approved Sterilizers: Autoclaves or similar equipment, regularly tested.
• Spore Testing: Use of biological indicators that confirm sterilization effectiveness.
• Proper PPE: Staff should be fully protected when handling instruments.
• Handwashing Stations: Easily accessible and fully stocked.
• Sharps Disposal: Containers for safe disposal of needles and sharp tools.
• Clear Zones – Clean and dirty instruments should never mix.
• Water Line Maintenance – Ask about their dental unit water lines. They should be disinfected regularly to avoid bacteria build-up.
• Visible Protocols – Identification signs and posters should be posted or easily referenced.

Final Thoughts

When you are visiting a dental office, don't hesitate to ask about their sterilization procedures. It is an important part of ensuring safe and hygienic care.

Your health and safety matter, and so does your peace of mind. Sterilization protocols shouldn’t be a secret. Any dental office worth its salt will not only answer your questions but appreciate that you care.

So go ahead. Ask the questions. Look for the signs. And never forget—you have the right to know how your care is being delivered.

Until next time, stay informed, stay clean, and stay safe out there.

Sherrie— The Clean Bite