Infection Control in Operative Dentistry
Course Description

Microorganisms
An overview of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and prions, and their role in causing infections. This section emphasises the importance of infection control in preventing the spread of pathogens in the dental environment.

SICP
Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICP) are essential to prevent cross-infection in dental practice. This section covers the routine precautions that must be taken with all patients, assuming that everyone may carry an infectious disease.

Vaccination for 'Flu and Covid
Details the importance of vaccinations for influenza and COVID-19 in dental practice. While not mandatory, these vaccines help protect healthcare workers and patients by reducing the spread of respiratory infections.

Vaccination, Hepatitis B
All dental staff must be vaccinated against Hepatitis B to prevent the spread of infection. This section discusses immunity testing and ongoing monitoring to ensure staff remain protected.

Bacteria
Bacteria are a major cause of dental infections. This section explains the difference between harmless and pathogenic bacteria and how they spread in the dental setting through aerosols and surfaces.

Bacterial Spores
Bacterial spores are highly resistant to heat and disinfectants. This section covers the importance of using steam autoclaves to effectively kill spores and prevent infection.

Viruses
Viruses, including hepatitis and HIV, pose a significant risk in dental practice. This section focuses on how viruses are transmitted and the measures needed to control their spread.

Fungi
Candida Albicans is the most common fungal infection in dentistry. This section discusses the risks of oral thrush in immunocompromised patients and how to prevent fungal infections.

Prions
Prions, though rare, are highly infectious agents that cause diseases like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). This section explains the challenges of eliminating prions and the precautions necessary in dental practice.

Legionella and Amoeba
Dental waterlines can harbour Legionella bacteria and amoebae, which can cause serious illness. This section provides guidance on waterline maintenance to prevent biofilm formation and ensure safe water usage in dental practices.

Hand Hygiene
Effective hand hygiene is very important to preventing infection in dental practice. This section outlines the proper techniques for handwashing and drying to reduce the spread of pathogens.

Hand Washing and Drying
Focuses on proper handwashing methods, including the use of warm water, antiseptic soap, and disposable towels to effectively remove microorganisms and prevent cross-contamination.

Gloves
Explains the use of gloves in dental procedures to reduce the risk of cross-infection. It covers different types of gloves, their use, and proper disposal after patient contact.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Details the PPE required for dental staff, especially during aerosol-generating procedures. This section covers the correct donning and doffing techniques to prevent contamination.

Zoning
Zoning helps manage infection risk by identifying dirty areas during dental procedures. This section explains how to set up and clean zones effectively to minimise cross-contamination.

Dental Waterlines
Maintaining clean dental waterlines is essential to prevent infection. This section covers the importance of using distilled water, regular flushing, and disinfection to control bacterial growth in waterlines.

Single Use Items
Discusses the benefits of single-use items in reducing cross-infection. Some items, such as endodontic files and PPE, must be single-use due to contamination risks and difficulties in sterilisation.

Body Fluid Spills
Spills of body fluids require immediate attention. This section provides protocols for safely managing and cleaning up spills to prevent the spread of infection in the dental office.

Sharps Injuries
Sharps injuries pose a serious risk to dental staff. This section covers the steps to take after an injury, including cleaning the wound and seeking medical advice, as well as prevention strategies.

Clearing Up
Proper cleaning after each dental procedure is essential to maintaining a safe environment. This section explains how to clean, disinfect, and prepare the surgery for the next patient, including managing sharps and contaminated instruments.

Course Completion
Participants will take a multiple-choice exam and receive a CPD certificate upon passing. The course emphasises practical infection control measures that ensure a safe dental environment for both staff and patients.