How should dental instruments be properly sterilized?

The proper sterilization of dental instruments is critical to ensuring patient safety and preventing the transmission of infections. The correct choice reflects the recognized and validated procedure in infection control protocols.

Sterilization involves a comprehensive process that includes several steps. First, instruments need to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris, blood, or saliva. This is usually achieved through manual washing or ultrasonic cleaning. Following the cleaning process, instruments should be lubricated (if necessary) to maintain their functionality and extend their lifespan. After lubrication, the instruments must be properly packed using sterilization pouches or wrapped in suitable materials designed for autoclaving. Finally, placing these packed instruments in an autoclave ensures that they are exposed to high-pressure steam at a specified temperature, effectively killing all microorganisms, including spores that standard cleaning methods cannot eliminate.

The other options lack the rigor and effectiveness required for proper sterilization. Soaking in a disinfectant overnight does not ensure complete sterilization and is not a substitute for the autoclaving process. Microwaving, while convenient, is not an accepted method for sterilizing dental instruments, as it does not consistently reach required temperatures or pressure needed for effective sterilization. Wiping instruments with alcohol wipes is insufficient for sterilization as it may not