Infection Control · single question

According to CDC guidelines, what is the recommended sterilization method for heat-stable dental instruments?

  1. UV irradiation
  2. Chemical vapor sterilization only
  3. Dry heat oven only
  4. Autoclave (steam sterilization)
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Correct answer: D. Autoclave (steam sterilization)

The CDC recommends autoclave (steam sterilization) as the preferred method for heat-stable dental instruments.
  • A. ❌ UV irradiation is surface disinfection only; it does NOT achieve sterilization.
  • B. ❌ Chemical vapor is acceptable but not the first choice over steam autoclave.
  • C. ❌ Dry heat is acceptable for instruments that corrode in steam.
  • D. ✅ CORRECT – Autoclave (steam sterilization) is the CDC-preferred method for dental instruments.

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