Which practice can help prevent the spread of infection in the dental office?

Regular handwashing is a fundamental practice that significantly helps prevent the spread of infection in the dental office. It is crucial for maintaining hygiene and reducing the risk of transmitting pathogens between healthcare providers and patients. Handwashing with soap and water, or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap isn't available, removes dirt, debris, and microorganisms from the hands.

This practice is vital in a dental setting where numerous instruments and surfaces come into contact with bodily fluids, and where there is close interaction between staff and patients. By ensuring hands are clean before and after patient contact, dental professionals significantly lower the chances of cross-contamination and infection, contributing to a safer environment for both patients and staff.

In contrast, using the same instruments for all patients, sharing gloves between procedures, and neglecting surface disinfection all pose serious risks of infection transmission. These practices can lead to the introduction of new pathogens and increase the likelihood of cross-contamination, highlighting the importance of adhering to stringent infection control protocols, including regular handwashing.