Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Low-Dose Gamma Radiation Sterilization for Decellularized Tracheal Grafts
Published on: April 14, 2023
[Quality of the sterilization process in the dental practice]
1Vakgroep Orale Microbiologie, Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde Amsterdam (ACTA), Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam.
Abstract:
A survey was performed among 249 Dutch dentists on the use and functioning of sterilizers in their practice and on the quality control of the sterilization process. 99% of the dentists use a sterilizer. Only 1% uses only a thermodesinfector. 7.3% of the sterilizers tested did not function properly, based on a microbiological test. 76% of the sterilizers are not serviced on a regular basis. These sterilizers show more often failures in the sterilization process. It is concluded that although over 92% of the sterilizers in Dutch dental offices do function well, improvement on the quality control of the sterilization process is feasible and necessary. Besides an annual service, a regular control of the sterilization process itself, e.g. by using biological indicators, in combination with physical and/or chemical monitoring, is one of het methods to achieve this.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection
Cleaning
The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
Methods of Sterilization I: Physical Methods
Steam sterilization uses non-toxic, low-cost moist heat in the form of saturated steam under pressure, which is fast, microbicidal, and sporicidal, and quickly warms and penetrates fabrics. Autoclaves, or steam sterilizers, expose each item to direct steam contact for a predetermined time at the necessary...
Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Temperature
Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Radiation and Filtration
Key Techniques in Microbiology

