Critical steps in instrument cleaning: removing debris after sonication

To effectively clean and reuse instruments, dental personnel must pay close attention to all aspects of cleaning and sterilization procedures. This study addressed ultrasonic instrument cleaning and final rinsing. Results show that an ultrasonic solution can become increasingly contaminated with debris after each successive load of instruments is cleaned. The authors conclude that thorough rinsing of instruments after sonication in preparation for sterilization markedly reduces carry-over of detectable organic debris.